Local residents invited to tree planting event at Dane Valley

Thanet District Council is inviting local people to take part in the first of six community tree planting events planned at sites across the district between October 2024 and March 2026. 

The activity kicks off over six days at Dane Valley Road in Margate, from Monday 28 October to Saturday 2 November, between 10am and 3pm, daily.  

A total of 2,000 young trees will be planted at the Dane Valley site, to create a mini-woodland. This project is supported by funding from Kent County Council, through the Local Authority Treescapes Fund. 

Plans to create six areas of mini-woodland in Thanet were approved by Cabinet in April 2024, as part of a wider initiative to increase tree cover for wildlife and residents. Mini-woodlands are also planned at the following locations, and planting will take place over the next two planting seasons:

• Garlinge Recreation Ground, Margate (0.5 hectares)
• Memorial Recreation Ground, Broadstairs (0.4 hectares)
• Northdown Park, Margate (0.8 hectares)
• St Peter’s Recreation Ground, Broadstairs (0.6 hectares)
• Tivoli Park, Margate (0.5 hectares)

These areas of mini-woodland could absorb approximately 1,140 tonnes of carbon emissions over 30 years. Information boards planned for each site will give people the opportunity to learn more about the benefits of trees and individual species in their local environment. 

Cllr Steve Albon, Cabinet Member for Cleansing and Coastal Services at Thanet District Council, said: “Every tree planted in Thanet benefits our community and protects our environment. In total, we’re planting four hectares of new woodland which will really help to increase biodiversity and keep Thanet a green place to live. 

“The new woodlands will also help to protect against some of the effects of climate change and are just one of the initiatives we’re introducing, as we work towards net zero.”

Anyone who would like to take part should complete the online form to book a place. There is no obligation to stay for the whole day; equipment and refreshments will be provided, and no previous experience of tree planting is necessary. Children are welcome to attend, but must be accompanied by an adult. 

Click here for more information about the Dane Valley event, and to book a space.

There is further information about the mini-woodland project on the council’s website.