New Community Trees Fund Announced – will this create a lasting long-term green infrastructure?

The Government’s new Community Trees Fund, announced as part of a £79 million package for nature recovery and climate resilience, will provide £53 million between 2027 and 2030 to support the planting of up to 500,000 trees outside traditional woodland environments, including streets, parks, public spaces and rural landscapes.

The wider funding package also includes £26 million for Local Nature Recovery Strategies, enabling local authorities to deliver environmental improvements tailored to local priorities.

The initiative recognises the important role trees play in creating healthier, more resilient communities. Government figures highlight that street trees can reduce urban temperatures by up to 4°C during heatwaves, while a mature tree can intercept more than 15,000 litres of rainwater each year, helping to reduce flood risk and surface water runoff. Trees also improve biodiversity, air quality and community wellbeing. However, successful tree planting projects depend on more than funding alone.

Delivering More Than Trees

At Frank P Matthews, we work with local authorities, landscape professionals and community organisations to provide a complete tree planting solution, from initial planning through to establishment and aftercare.

With over 125 years of growing experience, our team can support projects with:

• – Expert tree selection and specification
• – Native, ornamental and avenue trees
• – Community orchard and fruit tree schemes
• – UK-grown stock for large-scale planting projects
• – Nationwide delivery and logistics
• – Planting and establishment guidance
• – Ongoing aftercare and maintenance advice

The Right Trees in the Right Places

As local authorities seek to maximise the value of Community Trees Fund investment, careful species selection will be critical.

Different projects have different objectives, whether that’s enhancing biodiversity, cooling urban environments, creating wildlife corridors, improving public spaces, supporting pollinators or establishing community orchards.

Selecting suitable species for site conditions, future growth, maintenance requirements and climate resilience can significantly improve long-term outcomes while reducing replacement costs and management issues.

Supporting Local Nature Recovery

Under the new community trees fund the Government has emphasised that tree planting will be a key part of delivering Local Nature Recovery Strategies across England, helping communities adapt to climate change while creating greener, healthier neighbourhoods.

As one of the UK’s leading tree growers, Frank P Matthews is ideally placed to help councils and community groups translate funding opportunities into successful, sustainable planting schemes.

From expert advice and quality UK-grown trees to delivery, establishment and aftercare support, we help ensure trees become lasting assets for future generations.

Planning a Community Trees Fund or Local Nature Recovery project?

Contact Frank P Matthews to discuss tree selection, supply and long-term planting success. Email here…

Summary:

GOV.UK: Community Trees Fund announcement https://www.gov.uk/government/news/local-communities-to-receive-79-million-to-restore-nature

£53 million Community Trees Fund available between April 2027 and March 2030

A further £26 million will support Local Nature Recovery Strategies, helping local authorities deliver environmental improvements and climate adaptation projects