Berkshire's first Tiny Forest - planted in Newbury - providing haven for wildlife

Newbury saw Berkshire’s first Tiny Forest planted back in March this year.

The 1,200 trees were planted at Thames Water's Speen water treatment works, also in partnership with Earthwatch Europe and as part of the water company’s commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions across all of its operations by 2030.

Volunteers from Thames Water and charity Newbury Environment and Wildlife Team (NEWT) planted two Tiny Forests, which are already providing new havens for local wildlife, increasing biodiversity, and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Thames Water ecologist, Becky Elliott, said: “Through our innovative study, we're quantifying just how important Tiny Forests are in creating habitats that bring multiple benefits to urban areas, particularly where land available for tree planting is limited. Such co-benefits include increasing biodiversity and capturing and storing carbon, while educating and reconnecting people with nature.

“Taking care of the environment and communities we work in is really important to us and I’m thrilled we’ve brought this innovative tree planting method to Newbury.

“We’re committed to boosting biodiversity across our waste and water treatment sites, planting more trees and working in partnership with local communities as we find new ways to achieve our net zero ambitions over the next 10 years.”

NEWT is now responsible for managing the Tiny Forests in Speen – which each contain 600 trees and are the size of a tennis court - on a voluntary basis.

In total 20 native tree species have been planted at the site including alder, elm and crab apple saplings.

Rich Harrison, a member of NEWT, added: “We are thrilled to be part of this exciting project, which not only helps nature directly, but also provides an opportunity for people to appreciate nature and value its importance for our future.

“Our members will look after the Tiny Forests and facilitate educational opportunities for local schools and groups to get involved with the ongoing citizen science of this wonderful habitat. We are also keen for the local community to enjoy the beneficial wellbeing the environment can provide for all of us.”

Earthwatch has used Newbury’s Tiny Forests to test the effectiveness of soil preparation methods, with each forest prepared with a different soil preparation technique prior to planting.

Louise Hartley, Tiny Forest programme manager at Earthwatch Europe, added: “Tiny Forests provide rich opportunities for connecting young and old alike with the environment and sustainability. It’s vital that we give people the knowledge and skills to protect our natural world and inspire them to take positive action. We are delighted to be working with Thames Water to bring these inspiring spaces to Newbury.”