Over 300 Trees Planted at Knuzden Recreation Ground
Over 300 Trees Planted at Knuzden Recreation Ground
A dedicated group of 40 local residents planted over 300 trees on Saturday 8th February 2025 at Knuzden Recreation Ground. The newly planted trees will create a woodland edge alongside the site’s motorway fence, enhancing the site's aesthetics, reducing waterlogging on the main field, increasing biodiversity in the area and reducing noise and air pollution from the M65.
The initiative saw the enthusiastic participation of the Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Mike Booth, alongside Cllr Tina Walker, Cllr Andy Gilbert, the Hyndburn Police Cadets, and local volunteers, all working together to plant a diverse mix of native species, including English Oak, Hornbeam, Alder, Field Maple, Guelder Rose, Hawthorn, Hazel, and Spindle.
This event was organised and led by the Prospects Foundation, Hyndburn’s community-owned environmental charity. The TreeACTION community woodland programme is a collaborative project between the Prospects Foundation and Hyndburn Borough Council, created as a direct result of Hyndburn Borough Council’s Climate Emergency Declaration in September 2019.
The Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Mike Booth, commented: “There was something very satisfying about planting these trees today. It was an investment in all our futures. Knowing Hyndburn is doing something positive about the declaration of a climate emergency sets a good example and gives us all hope that as individuals we can all do something positive to avoid climate change.”
Cllr Tina Walker, representing the St. Oswald’s Ward, added: “It’s great to see so many volunteers. This is a fantastic scheme for the area, I can't wait to see them in bloom.”
Helen Earnshaw, TreeACTION Officer for the Prospects Foundation, said: “This is what the TreeACTION Project is all about - getting local people involved in woodland creation, improving the land for future generations, and doing our bit to tackle the climate emergency. Thanks to our funders Trees for Cities, the Windfall Fund and Hyndburn Borough Council, we’re able to carry out this important work”
Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, Portfolio Holder for Parks and Open Spaces said: "Hyndburn Borough Council is proud to provide funding for the TreeACTION initiative and many other environmental projects delivered by the Prospects Foundation. The Council supports many initiatives across Hyndburn that enhance our spaces and contribute to biodiversity, reduce pollution, and improve the quality of life for our residents. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Prospects Foundation and seeing the positive impact of these projects for years to come."
This initiative builds on previous improvements to Knuzden Recreation Ground, which saw the installation of a new play area and ballcourt in 2023. The addition of new trees will help manage flooding on the main field, making it more accessible and enjoyable for local residents year-round.
For those interested in participating in future tree planting opportunities, please contact the Prospects Foundation at info@prospectsfoundation.org.uk.
