We’re teaming up with the Woodland Trust this autumn to brighten up Bridgend by planting 300 trees across the county.

We’re planning to plant trees in Caerau, Maesteg, North Cornelly and Pencoed but before we get started, we want to hear your thoughts about the locations.

Now’s your chance to get involved! Fill in our form to view the plans, let us know what you think and sign up if you’d like to get stuck in and help us plant the trees. Tree planting season runs from November until March, so we’ll be looking to plant these trees in December. You can also view the plans here.

To meet our climate change targets, the UK needs at least 1.5 million hectares of additional woodland by 2050 and we’ve got an uphill fight to simply maintain where we are today. So, the more trees we plant of the correct species in the correct place the better.

The trees will help us on our goal towards becoming carbon neutral by 2030, and with our ongoing commitment to regenerate our local communities and build a better Bridgend. In addition to the carbon-offsetting benefits of trees, they will also help increase biodiversity and can help reduce flooding.

What trees will be planted?

We will be planting native broadleaf trees. The species are 

Hazel, blackthorn, crab apple, elder, dog rose and rowan, hawthorn, silver birch, field maple, wild cherry and sessile oak and some willow (wetland species).

Every tree that we plant comes from seeds sourced and grown in the UK. Here’s why:

1. Crucial for our wildlife

Many native insects, birds and other animals would find it hard to survive without the food and shelter they provide.

2. Easier to grow

Many native broadleaf trees will grow in difficult areas with little or no fertiliser.

3. Easier to maintain

Local plants are adapted to local soils and climate and often have lower maintenance requirements.

4. Resilient

Once established, native plants can usually withstand long periods of dry weather.

5. Protection from exotic pests and diseases

Planting trees that have never been overseas is one of the simplest and most effective ways of protecting trees from new pests and diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What will be the position of the trees?

It’s important to think about the final size and spread of the trees and how we use the site as the trees grow. Avoid planting under existing trees, as shade and lack of water will seriously restrict growth. Allow plenty of distance from existing hedges as they could swamp the growth of new trees, and  leave access to the hedge for future maintenance.

How will the trees be spaced out?

Spacing will depend on what we want from the trees. It is best to plant in wavy lines and vary the spacing across the site. This will enable balance between more densely planted sections with open areas for a natural look and feel. Plant small groups of the same species together – this will help reduce competition between different species as they grow.

The trees should be planted about two metres apart, but can be planted 1-5m apart depending on the space and plan.

When will the trees be planted?

Trees should be planted when they are dormant and so less likely to get damaged. Tree planting season runs between November and March.

Trees on this space will be planted in December.

How will the site be prepared?

  • Before starting to plant, we will mark out where each tree will be placed using spray paint
  • If any planting areas are overgrown we will cut the grass short and weed. This will make planting easier and reduce competition for water, helping the saplings to thrive.