Funding boost to help expand community tree planting scheme

CPRE Sussex has secured £8,600 from the National Lottery Community Fund to expand its Brighton and Hove-based Plant Your Postcode (PYP) scheme, which encourages community-led planting of street trees.

Nancy Duckels, campaigns and communications manager at CPRE Sussex, said: “Tree canopy in Brighton and Hove is at an all-time low and getting worse as trees are lost to age and disease.

“This money will allow us to help communities plant trees in their streets through our largely volunteer-led Plant Your Postcode scheme and to build on our previous success.”

The funding will help cover the cost of the Plant Your Postcode manager, who supports communities with planting projects and helps coordinate the annual Tree Festival.

Ms Duckels said the dedicated manager has been vital in bringing projects to life and expects to support more than 1,000 volunteers and supporters during the next phase.

Residents interested in starting a planting project can visit cpresussex.org.uk/plant-your-postcode.

Jen Eneke, who currently holds the role, is working with multiple community planting projects across the city.

Ms Eneke said: “Plant Your Postcode is an opportunity for residents to appreciate the nature on their doorstep.

“There are many environmental benefits to increasing tree cover.

“But community-led tree planting is also about growing connections.

“Our experience is that it brings neighbours together, builds pride in shared spaces and creates lasting roots for the community.”