Person planting tree sapling — The 800 new trees in Salisbury will ‘enhance city’s natural environment’. Picture: Salisbury City Council

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800 new trees in Salisbury will ‘enhance city’s natural environment’

Jamie JonesAugust 10, 20260 Comment0

A HISTORIC milestone is set to be marked with the planting of 800 new trees in Salisbury.

Celebrating the 800th anniversary of Salisbury receiving its Royal Charter, Salisbury City Council is launching a landmark Living Legacy Project which will see saplings planted throughout the city,

The initiative, which will see community groups, schools, businesses and residents getting their hands dirty, will be the first in a year-long programme of council-organised events celebrating the milestone.

Creating a living legacy that will enhance the city’s natural environment for years to come, the project aims to support local biodiversity, provide valuable habitats for wildlife and contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents by increasing access to nature.

Residents, organisations and community groups are invited to apply for a tree or native hedge to plant on private land, with the permission of the landowner. Available options include rowan, bird cherry and oak saplings, as well as native hedging.

Successful applicants will be able to collect their trees on Charter Sunday – January 31 2027 – from Salisbury Market Place. Full planting and aftercare guidance will be provided to ensure the trees have the best possible start.

Cllr Jenny Bolwell, Mayor of Salisbury and Chair of the Environment Committee, said: “Every tree planted represents a commitment to our environment. This is a wonderful opportunity to commemorate Salisbury 800 and be part of something that will benefit the city for generations to come.”

Each tree planted as part of the Salisbury 800 Living Legacy Project will be recorded on a digital map, capturing its location alongside details of the project and the individuals and groups involved. The interactive map will be available online, allowing residents and visitors to follow the growth of this city-wide legacy.

The final tree of the 800 will be planted in one of Salisbury’s parks as a symbolic celebration of the project and the enduring connection between the city, its residents and its natural environment.

Those wishing to take can apply now by completing the form on Salisbury City Council’s Salisbury 800 webpage. Paper copies of the form are available to collect from Salisbury Information Centre. The closing date for applications is October 1.

For more information about the Salisbury 800 Living Legacy Project, visit the Salisbury City Council website or email parks@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk.