Wicklow County Council’s popular Annual Tree Planting Grant Scheme is now accepting applications, offering enhanced funding of up to 95% of project costs. This initiative aims to support local biodiversity and climate action projects. Community groups have until Sunday, September 28th 2024, to apply.
The scheme provides financial support for Tidy Towns committees, residents’ associations, schools, sports clubs and other community groups to plant native trees, mixed native hedgerows and suitable fruit trees in public spaces. This year, applicants can receive up to €500, which covers nearly the entire cost of their planting projects.
The initiative aims to increase tree cover and hedgerows in Wicklow’s towns and villages, aligning with the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and contributing to the Council’s Climate and Biodiversity Action Plans. The late autumn and winter months are ideal for planting, as it allows trees to establish strong roots before spring growth.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr Melanie Corrigan, welcomed the opening of applications: “The annual tree grant supports the work of Tidy Towns, residents’ associations, and other local groups to improve open spaces with good planting that improves local amenities and enriches the biodiversity of our communities.”
Theresa O’Brien, Director of Services for Climate, Environment, Recreation, and Amenity, added, “Wicklow County Council is committed to taking climate action and restoring biodiversity. Increasing tree cover with native species plays an essential role in delivering our Climate and Biodiversity Action Plans.”
In addition to native trees, the grant will also consider applications for non-native tree species that are pollinator-friendly and provide nuts and seeds for birds and small mammals, particularly in urban and suburban areas.
Applicants must submit a completed application form, detailed quotes from a garden centre or nursery, and a map of the proposed planting locations by the deadline.
Application forms are available by emailing the Environmental Awareness Office at eao@wicklowcoco.ie or can be downloaded from: https://www.wicklow.ie/Living/Services/Environment/Recycling-Waste-Management/Community-Schools/Tree-Grants