Help us grow a greener Braintree District
The Community Tree Planting Grant provides funding to support local organisations, community groups, schools, parish and town councils, charities, and other not-for-profit organisations to plant trees and create greener, healthier spaces across the district.
The grant aims to support projects that deliver environmental, social, and community benefits, including:
- Increasing biodiversity and wildlife habitats
- Tackling climate change and improving climate resilience
- Enhancing parks, open spaces, and community areas
- Supporting pollinators and habitat connectivity
- Improving community wellbeing
- Providing educational and volunteering opportunities
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from:
- Charities
- Community organisations with a constitution
- Social enterprises and Community Interest Companies (CICs)
- Faith groups
- Parish and town councils
- Schools, colleges, and other educational establishments
- Other not-for-profit organisations
Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have permission to plant on the proposed site and that arrangements are in place for the ongoing maintenance of the trees.
What can funding be used for?
Funding can contribute towards costs associated with:
- Trees, stakes, guards and ties
- Mulch and soil improvements
- Planting activities
- Watering and establishment works
- Ongoing maintenance during the establishment period
- Other project costs directly related to tree planting
Applicants will also be asked to provide details of how the trees will be cared for and maintained in the long term.
How applications are assessed
Applications will be assessed against a range of criteria, including:
- Environmental benefits
- Community impact and engagement
- Value for money
- Deliverability of the project
- Long-term maintenance arrangements
Projects that demonstrate strong community involvement and lasting environmental benefits are encouraged to apply.
Supporting documents
- Community Tree Planting Fund Grant Information Pack
- Appendix A1 - Essex Tree Palette
- Appendix A2 - Tree Species Selection for green infrastructure
- Appendix B - Tree Planting Best Practice
- Appendix C - Tree Planting Risk Assessment
- Appendix D - Site Plan Requirements
- Appendix E - Tree Planting Grant Application Assessment Panel Scoring
Apply now
Before applying, please read the guidance notes and ensure you have all the supporting information required, such as site plans, landowner permission, project budgets and maintenance plans where relevant.
Alternatively, you can view and download the Community Tree Planting Grant application form.
