As autumn arrives, Cambridgeshire County Council is inviting applications for its free tree and hedgerow pack giveaway. The initiative targets landowners, community groups, parish councils, and organisations aiming to establish wildlife habitats, connect green spaces, or improve local landscapes.
This programme, a collaboration with the Woodland Trust and the Forestry Commission, aims to increase tree and hedgerow coverage throughout the county, restore natural habitats on council land, and support community-led conservation projects.
Each tree pack, funded by the Woodland Trust, includes 50 native broadleaved trees with protective tubes and stakes, sufficient for planting approximately 0.03 hectares. Organisations can apply for a maximum of two packs. The Forestry Commission-funded hedgerow packs contain 250 native shrubs, guards, protection, and two to three trees, suitable for creating about 50 metres of new hedgerow. Applicants can request up to three hedgerow packs.
Applicants can apply for a hedgerow pack, a tree pack, or both, and must commit to planting the trees or hedgerows by the end of February 2027. Successful applicants must agree to follow planting and maintenance guidance and ensure ongoing care for the plants.
Cllr Ros Hathorn, Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council's Environment and Green Investment Committee, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “We are proud to work with the Woodland Trust and The Forestry Commission whose support is bringing thousands of trees and hedgerow plants to communities across Cambridgeshire, helping to create new wildlife habitats and work towards a greener future for the county.” She encouraged eligible individuals and groups to apply early due to expected high demand.
Ben Green, Regional External Affairs Officer at the Woodland Trust, highlighted the significance of planting trees as a lasting act for the future. He noted that the partnership aims to simplify the process for individuals to contribute to nature recovery, connecting existing green spaces and bringing nature closer to communities. He urged those with suitable land to take advantage of the free packs, describing them as a chance to create a living legacy.
Macbradan Bones, Forestry Commission Nature Recovery Advisor, stated the commission's delight in partnering for the Cambridge and Peterborough Tree Woodland Forum. He emphasised the importance of hedgerows as a vital tool for nature recovery, providing wildlife habitats, seed sources, and contributing to carbon storage and climate change mitigation. Advisors are available to support farmers and landowners interested in planting more trees.
To sign up for a pack or find more information, visit the Cambridgeshire Free Tree & Hedgerow Pack Giveaway 2026/27 event page. Packs are available until allocated. Collection will be from a central Cambridgeshire location during National Tree Week (21-29 November 2026) or February half term 2027. Further details will be provided to successful applicants.
