Let's plant 100 new trees in Filton - councillor

By Jane Williams

Taking inspiration from similar schemes in others areas of South Glos, Filton Town Councillor Dan Boardman (Green, Conygre Ward), is spearheading a project to see 100 new trees planted around Filton.

The idea came after a number of residents contacted Dan to ask if it would be possible to have some trees planted on Filton Avenue, close to the junction by Screwfix, to help block some of the noise and pollution from traffic on the roads.

And the idea has since snowballed.

“I approached South Glos Council and found they had a plan in progress, and they’re going around the whole of South Glos investigating where they can increase the tree canopy in urban areas,” said Dan. “We’re on the list for next year.”

Dan found that a map existed showing rough locations for some proposed trees in Filton and, after receiving a copy of the map himself, he began to circulate it to residents to see if anyone had suggestions for other places in Filton that would benefit from extra trees and greenery.

“One of the main areas they’re focussing on is Filton Avenue,” says Dan.

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"The word ‘avenue’ suggests it would be a tree-lined road although currently it isn’t, so it would be nice to make that a true avenue, to make it more of a green space.”

The benefits of having extra trees and greenery in an area have been well researched. Trees provide a cooler environment during hot weather spells, as well as necessary shade. They promote biodiversity for a range of wildlife and birds, and generally create a nicer environment for everyone using the space. Trees also absorb some pollution from cars.

Following the pandemic, there has also been research showing that green spaces and vegetation are good for our mental health and wellbeing.

The new trees will be restricted to South Glos-owned property, such as council maintained verges, but Dan says there is also some discussion with the town council around planting extra trees in Elm Park and Millennium Green, right.

However, wherever the trees go, the council will first need to carry out surveys to ensure they are not planting on top of facilities such as water pipes or power cables.

It is not yet known which types of trees will be planted, but Dan hopes it will be possible for some of them to be fruit trees, perhaps on the quieter roads.

“There are a few fruit trees in different places in Filton,” he says, “and maybe we can expand the small orchard in Millennium Green. We’re very lucky in Filton to have some really nice green spaces run by the council and volunteers, including the Community Garden, which is always very nice to see.”

Once the sites have been chosen and the surveys carried out, the goal is that planting will start in spring 2024.

Dan adds: “It’s a good news story for Filton as South Glos doesn’t always get the best press with residents. So I want to make sure we get the right things in the right place, so that it’s good news for everyone.”

If anyone has suggestions for where trees could be planted, Dan would be pleased to hear from you: dan.boardman@ filtontowncouncil.gov.uk

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