OCOR branches out: Derby schools receive free trees from flood defence project
Published: 2 May 2024
The trees were planted at Ashwood-Spencer School, Sir John Fisher School, and West Park School.
Three Derby schools are feeling the benefits of a major tree planting scheme along the River Derwent.
Pupils rolled up their sleeves to help plant 56 trees at Ashwood-Spencer School (4), West Park School (16), and St John Fisher School (36), courtesy of the Our City, Our River project and Trees for Derby.
The schools received a mix of tree species which, as they grow, will enhance learning opportunities by providing shade, habitats for wildlife and improved Forest School areas.
These trees add to the more than 500 trees that have already been planted as part of the OCOR replanting scheme. In total, the scheme is aiming to plant over 2000 trees across the city over the coming years, more than replacing those that have had to be removed to make way for new flood defences.
Last year hundreds of households were given the chance to receive a free tree for their garden, with over 100 taking up the offer.
This tree replacement initiative is just one of the many environmental enrichments that are being implemented as part of the OCOR project. Along the Derwent new habitats for birds, bats and otters have been created, as well as a new fish refuge lagoon new the Mill Fleam pumping station.
Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability, said:
It’s great to see more trees springing up around Derby, and even better to see our young people taking an interest and getting involved.
These trees, along with the high quality flood defences, will be part of a positive legacy for the city left behind by OCOR.
I’m sure the three schools will already be making the most of their new trees, and I’m looking forward to seeing more schools benefit in the next planting season.”