500,000 trees planted as part of 1 Million Trees for Norfolk scheme

Norfolk County Council has marked the halfway point of its ambitious 1 Million Trees for Norfolk scheme, with the planting of tree number 500,000. 

The tree was planted in the garden of Priscilla Bacon Lodge, with the help of Paul Bussey who has provided grant funding for a number of tree planting projects. The tree planted, a Norfolk Oak, was grown by volunteers at Gressenhall Community tree nursery. 

Councillor James Bensly, cabinet Member for environment and waste at Norfolk County Council said: 

"Reaching the halfway mark of 500,000 trees is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved. We want to ensure that trees are planted in the right places, securing a legacy in our county for years to come. The gardens at Priscilla Bacon Lodge are a great example of how this initiative can help people and the environment to thrive together.  We are committed to continuing this momentum and achieving our goal of 1 million trees for Norfolk." 

The 1 Million Trees for Norfolk scheme, launched in 2020, aims to plant one million trees across the county. The initiative has seen widespread participation from local communities, schools, businesses, and landowners. 

The county council has committed to planting an average of 150,000 trees a year until the one million tree mark is reached. 

Case study: Priscilla Bacon Lodge 

The 8 acres of native meadowland and ornamental gardens at Priscilla Bacon Lodge, the hospice providing palliative and end of life care in Norwich, are a vital component of their services. 

They have been awarded £1,500 from the Busseys Community Tree Grant to increase woodland space by planting over 200 trees and introducing educational wildlife trails for all ages. 

Jack Mackenzie, head gardener, at Priscilla Bacon Lodge said: 

"The gardens provide a place for our patients and their families to benefit from the restorative qualities of the natural world. That can include just getting some include fresh air, sunlight and exercise, which can go a long way to improving their mental health and wellbeing. 

"Hazel and willow trees will eventually support woodcraft workshops and provide sustainable materials for garden stakes. The trees will even help us with the changing seasons, soaking up the excess water, and making the site safer, as mown pathways are often flooded. 

"We hope that the woodland will create precious moments and connections as our patients and their families explore the space." 

Business owner Paul Bussey of Busseys' set up the grant fund to support groups in Norfolk looking to plant trees that deliver a community benefit. He said: 

"We are proud to have played our part in helping Norfolk reach this milestone. It is always great to see where the trees are being planted and the benefit they can provide to the environment and the local community." 

Get Involved - 50% off trees 

Norfolk County Council continues to encourage community involvement and support for the 1 Million Trees for Norfolk scheme. 

The 1 Million Trees for Norfolk subsidised tree scheme is open for individuals, parish councils, community groups, businesses, schools, and landowners to apply for tree packs (and tree protection) at up to 50% off the original price. 

As well as the usual range of tree packs available, this year, for the first time there are a limited number of single Norfolk Oak trees, grown at Gressenhall Community tree nursery, making it possible for more people to take part. 

Those interested can apply for subsidised tree packs by visiting the website before 22 January www.norfolk.gov.uk/subsidisedtreepacks.