Grants to support the establishment of trees, hedgerows and orchards on streets, in parks and in community and educational spaces are now open across southern and central Scotland thanks to an innovative partnership between The Tree Council and electricity network operator, SP Energy Networks (SPEN).
The Tree Council, the national charity bringing together people and organisations to champion trees and hedgerows, offers a range of funding to support planting projects; helping to bring greater biodiversity, improved air quality, reduced risk of flooding, and deliver significant environmental enhancements to grant recipients and their communities.
The SP Energy Networks Community Tree Planting Fund – now in its third year – provides grants between £2,500 and £10,000 for tree establishment projects across Scotland, with a particular emphasis on the central and southern belt where SPEN operates the electricity transmission and distribution grids.
The Tree Council CEO, Sara Lom said:
“Trees play such a vital role in our communities – not just for the environment, but in the way they can bring people together.
“Community planting projects create a real sense of shared ownership, learning and care, leaving a lasting legacy for both people and place.
“Submit your applications as early as you can, and together we can help deliver the benefits – and the joy – of trees to more neighbourhoods.”
Aileen Rourke, Scotland Distribution Director at SP Energy Networks said:
“Our partnership with The Tree Council is helping transform communities right across our patch – from Dunfermline to Dumfries – with more than 15,000 trees already established thanks to our funding.
“It’s a brilliant way to give back to our communities, deliver a living legacy that will last for years to come and support a cleaner and greener future for our communities.
“So, get applying for this year’s grants now!”
The Inverclyde Shed project, at Clydeview Academy in Port Glasgow, was one of last year’s successful applicants. Thanks to a grant from The Tree Council and SP Energy Networks, the group created a food-producing orchard with more than 100 apple, plum, pear and cherry trees.
Inverclyde Shed Lead Gardner, Bruce Newlands said:
“Being part of this project has been a fantastic experience for everyone involved. The collaboration between SP Energy Networks and The Tree Council has been incredibly positive. It’s been inspiring to see so many young people and volunteers come together to create something that will benefit the community for generations.
“We’re genuinely excited about what the future holds for the orchard. This space will continue to grow – literally and figuratively – through annual maintenance workshops, learning opportunities and community events. It’s already becoming a place where people can connect, learn new skills and enjoy the outdoors.”
The SP Energy Networks Community Tree Planting Fund is open to applications from local authorities, charities and other NGOs, community groups, educational institutions and individual landowners, with an application deadline of Sunday 19 July.
To find out more and apply, please visit www.treecouncil.org.uk/grants-and-guidance/our-grants/spen-community-tree-planting-fund/
