On Saturday 23 April, Trees for Cities planted 17 trees around the St George’s Estate in Shadwell and created a community garden where residents can relax, play and socialise in. The local community, residents and volunteers got involved at the community-led event to help plant trees, shrubs and bulbs to enhance the green space. The plants chosen include several species which will provide nectar for bees and other pollinating insects, contributing to an objective in the Local Biodiversity Action Plan.
Trees for Cities has been working in partnership with Housing Association EastendHomes and residents at St George’s Estate in Tower Hamlets since 2012. Feedback from residents has been hugely positive, with a high attendance during planting days. Following this early success, the residents were keen to continue improving their living environment and so inspired the planting of 17 new trees.
Paul Wilson, Community Engagement Manager EastendHomes, said
“Our partnership with Trees for Cities has been a great success. Their horticultural expertise combined with our resident’s passion is transforming unused areas of St George’s Estate, improving residents well being now and for future generations.”
“The people of St George’s have a real passion for improving their green spaces,” Trees for Cities’ David Elliott said. “Their local knowledge and willingness to get involved in the project from the initial design to the planting and learning about tree maintenance is fantastic.”
Feedback from volunteers and community:
“You learn so much about trees / soil / what’s good / what’s not good for trees!”
“the sense of satisfaction and achievement”
“I’ve met people here who I’ve never spoken to – ‘community spirit’.”
Photos: Trees for Cities
