New £2.5m fund launched for tree planting in honour of King Charles

The Government has announced that thousands of trees will be planted to mark the King’s coronation.

On Saturday (August 5), a new £2.5 million fund was launched to help councils create green spaces and “connect communities with nature as a permanent reminder of the coronation.”

The initiative honours King Charles’s dedication to nature and the environment, which was evident through his support for wildlife and conservation charities during his time as Prince of Wales.

Several projects are included in the initiative, such as free or subsidised tree schemes managed by councils, grants for farmers to plant trees on agricultural land, and funding for small tree nurseries.

The project aims to increase tree cover in the UK, the Government has said (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire)

Additionally, communities and groups can apply for funding to plant orchards or use the Miyawaki method, a technique that involves careful soil preparation to rapidly plant dense native woodlands.

How long is the tree planting scheme open for?

The Government stated that this initiative aims to meet targets of tripling tree planting rates by the next election and ensuring that 16.5% of land area is covered by trees by 2050.

County, district, and city councils in England can apply for grants of £10,000 to £50,000, with applications being accepted until September 11.

Other groups, such as parish councils and housing associations, should contact their local authority if they wish to participate in the initiative.

Speaking on the subject, Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said: “Building on the launch of the first Coronation Woodlands this year, I am delighted that communities across the country will be able to create new spaces to enjoy trees which will serve as a permanent reminder of His Majesty’s coronation in their local areas.”

She added that the trees would “mark His Majesty’s passion for trees and woodlands” and deliver a number of benefits for the environment.

Meanwhile, Forestry Commission chairman Sir William Worsley said: “I am delighted that today we are opening the Coronation Living Heritage Fund to commemorate the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

“This will enable communities to grow new and diverse trees to enrich the environment in which people, wildlife, and nature coexist for generations to come.”