We are taking part in The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) and has planted an Ash tree in Weavers Park, Braintree, and a Red Ornamental Chestnut tree in Witham Town Park and Halstead Public Gardens.
This year marks 70 years since HM The Queen came to the throne. As part of the celebrations, the council is encouraging others to plant trees to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Many local communities across the district have already planted tree whips and bulbs as part of the council’s recent Community Tree and Bulb planting project, including St John The Baptist School in Pebmarsh, Alec Hunter Secondary School in Braintree, Maltings Academy in Witham and Halstead Brownies.
With a focus on planting sustainably, the QGC encourages the planting of trees to create a legacy in honour of The Queen’s leadership of the Nation, which will benefit future generations.
Cllr Sue Wilson, Chairman of Braintree District Council, said: “The Queen has been a true inspiration to all of us over the years and I am honoured to be able to plant a tree for the jubilee on behalf of Braintree District Council. We will be adding the trees’ locations to the Queen’s Green Canopy map to mark our respect and involvement.”
Back in 2011, as part of the Green Heart of Essex campaign, we donated Oak trees to celebrate HM The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee (1952 – 2012). The ‘Jubilee Oaks’ initiative gave every parish and ward in the district the opportunity to claim a free celebration oak tree to plant in their community.
Cllr Wendy Schmitt, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and The Environment for Braintree District Council, said: “I am very passionate about trees and was honoured to plant a sapling of a 300-year-old Bocking native tree from my garden in Weavers Park to mark the Queen’s Green Canopy as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The trees will not only leave a legacy in memory of the Queen’s long reign for many generations, but will play an important role on our planet by having a positive impact on the environment and help counter the damaging effects of climate.”
Cllr Mick Radley, Chairman and Mayor of Halstead Town Council, said: “I’m really pleased to attend this tree planting in the Halstead Public Gardens to mark the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. For generations to come this tree will serve as a reminder of her commitment and dedication to serving to our country and upholding our traditions and values.”
Cllr Angela Kilmartin, Mayor of Witham Town Council, said: “Witham loves its trees and so I welcome this commemorative tree for Queen Elizabeth II on her historic Platinum Jubilee. It will grace our town park for many years.”
To find out more about he Queen’s Green Canopy and how to get involved visit their website.