Parish Tree Planting Scheme

The scheme is operated on a discretionary basis by the Mid Suffolk District Council and is aimed at trying to ensure that trees and shrubs native to the area are planted where they will be of public benefit. This means that areas of high public visibility, near highways or public footpaths are ideal for consideration. Applicants are expected to plant and maintain trees and shrubs provided. The scheme may be operated in one of two ways.

1) Supply of Plants:

This is the normal way in which the scheme is administered. Successful applicants will receive a number of native trees and shrubs of their choice (up to a maximum per year) which will be delivered free of charge to the allocated site. (Please provide location map). This will usually include stakes and shelters. Please supply a list of native plant species from the choice attached, the numbers you require and a plan of where they are to be planted. Plants are usually supplied as 60-90 cms tall whips, cell-grown or bare root material.

2) Cash Grant Aid:

On some schemes applicants may wish to install more plants than the maximum allowable for the year. In these instances and where no other organisation is supplying grant, it may be acceptable to provide a direct cash grant based upon an estimate of the scheme with full schedule of plants. Payment is strictly discretional and will be released only when a receipted invoice has been received. Retrospective payment will not be allowed.

The scheme may not be used:

• where non-native plants are proposed;
• where a site is subject to a pending planning application or an undischarged planning permission condition;
• where another grant aiding body is involved;
• for schemes begun before an offer is made;
• on sites of low public visibility.

All decisions are at the discretion of the local authority, that may at any time change the conditions of the scheme. For further information, please contact:

David Mitchell
Tree Officer
Telephone: 07824 537517