Roots for the Future – Cranbrook’s Commitment to Sustainability with 5,670 Trees to be Planted

Cranbrook Town Council is proud to announce the ongoing success of its tree planting initiatives, which began in Winter 2024. By the end if this planting season, an additional 3,475 trees will have been added to Cranbrook Country Park, contributing to a total of 5,670 trees in the upcoming season

Cranbrook Town Council is proud to announce the ongoing success of its tree planting initiatives, which began in Winter 2024.
By the end if this planting season, an additional 3,475 trees will have been added to Cranbrook Country Park, contributing to a total of 5,670 trees in the upcoming season. 20 native broadleaf species including Oak, Alder and Willow varieties, are part of a wider commitment to sustainability.

Through the tree planting initiatives, the community is coming together to create a greener and healthier future.
The Town Council has successfully applied for two projects, namely Forestry Commission’s England Woodland Creation Offer and Devon County Council Local Authority Treescapes Fund.
These projects support Cranbrook Town Council’s vision of developing a thriving green town. Tree planting not only improves air quality, soil health and mitigate flooding but also provides wildlife habitats and increases biodiversity and topography.
Councillor Les Bayliss, Chairman of Cranbrook Town Council, said, “We believe that every tree planted is a step towards a more sustainable and vibrant future. Through the dedication of our community, we are not only enhancing our green spaces but also creating lasting benefits for future generations. With an additional 3,475 trees added to Cranbrook Country Park, we improve air quality, support local wildlife, and strengthen our connection to nature. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has contributed to this initiative.

Together, we are shaping a greener and healthier Cranbrook, and we look forward to seeing Cranbrook Country Park thrive for years to come.” Beyond improving the landscape, these tree planting projects also foster a culture of environmental responsibility and community engagement. Planned and led by the Cranbrook Ranger, the initiative has been made possible through collaboration with local volunteers, schools, and community groups including Cranbrook and East Devon’s Home Ed communities.

Environmental organisations like ParkLife SW and The Devon Woods Project also have also played a crucial role in supporting these efforts. Sean Webber, Devon Woods Project Manager, said, “It has been great to work with Cranbrook Town Council and the Ranger to help create new areas of diverse woodland which will benefit wildlife, residents, and future generations. Devon Woods team, North Devon Biosphere Foundation.” Angela Whitten, St Martin's C of E Primary and Nursery School Forest School Teacher, said “As a part of our forest sessions, we talk about the importance of the maintenance of both the forest and country park. This term the Year 5 children have been actively involved in planting trees in Cranbrook Country Park.

They have learnt about how to plant them correctly to ensure that they survive and about the project as a whole. The importance of trees to help both the eco-system and the sustainability of the country park are high on the agenda. The children also have the opportunity to transfer the skills they have learnt as a part of their forest lessons to the tree planting and vice versa. We also discuss how important it is to support our local community and get involved.” 3 Cranbrook Country Park is the jewel of the town.

The Town Council has worked tirelessly to protect and enhance its resilience for the future. These efforts have been widely recognised - in July 2024, Cranbrook Country Parks received the prestigious Green Flag Award and in August 2024, the community was presented with the Saving Devon's Treescapes Award from Devon Wildlife Trust. These accolades highlight the dedication of Cranbrook Town Council and local community to preserving and improving green spaces. 

Looking ahead, Cranbrook Town Council is planning more tree planting events and educational programs to encourage community involvement. These initiatives will ensure that Cranbrook continues to grow as a vibrant and environmentally sustainable town for generations to come.