Host of new trees planted in local park

St Giles Hill in Winchester is home to 100 new small trees.

The planting, which has been funded by Winchester City Council, took place on Saturday 9 December with the help and assistance of local charity the Friends of St Giles Hill Park. 

These small trees, known as whips, include apple, pear, elm and bird cherry, and all species have been chosen for their ecological and biodiversity value. Native juniper will be planted at a later date in the park, which is managed by Winchester City Council.

This work follows the removal of a number of diseased ash trees and clearance of brambles and clematis in the area in accordance with the biodiversity net gain legislation which will come into effect in January 2024.

Volunteers from the Friends of St Giles Hill Park aim to nurture the trees particularly in the crucial early years as the trees establish themselves. 

Winchester City Council Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency Cllr Kelsie Learney said:

“We are grateful for the support of the Friends of St Giles Hill Park as we continue to work together to achieve the best long-term outcome and benefits for the area, enhancing and improving its biodiversity.

“This tree planting is a key part of our five-year management plan – and our wider Biodiversity Action Plan - for St Giles Park which sets out what needs to be done to maintain and improve the park. These new trees will also play a key role as we aim for carbon neutrality and to become greener faster across our district.”

Chair of the Friends of St Giles Hill Park group Dr Harry Mycock said:

“The Friends of St Giles Hill Park was set up as a charity in April 2023 with the aim of helping improve the park for all - flora, fauna and people.“Successful litter picks and guided walks were followed by setting up Working Parties, which began with two or three locals and their own tools at the end of August. The numbers of volunteers had grown to double figures by October, and grants from Winchester City Council and Hampshire County Council assisted with the purchasing of some tools.

“Initially, in line with the Winchester City Council five-year plan for the park, fencing, pathways and clearance work at viewpoints was undertaken, but now with the newly planted area it will be most satisfying to expand efforts into a wider area.”

Last Updated: Thursday 14 December 2023