The report identified the sites that Brentwood Council would be seeking to plant woodlands and trees, and provided an overview of the different groups and organisations the Council are working with to identify and secure projects that would assist and develop more planting schemes across the borough in the future.

A motion was MOVED by Cllr Mrs Pearson and SECONDED by Cllr Hossack.   to agree the recommendations in the report.

Following a discussion a vote was taken by a show of hands and it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY that:

Members were asked to:

R1. Approve the present list of suggested tree planting sites as part of the beginning of tree planting in the borough (para 8 of the report).

R2. That funding for the woodlands or tree planting is met through identified grants or from existing budgets and/or future growth bids

R3. That the Chair, Vice Chair and Ward members are consulted on any scheme to be implemented within a ward

R4. Agree to continue to work with the Forestry Commission, Essex Forest initiative (EFI), Thames Chase, Woodland Trust, Natural England , RPA/DEFRA and local sector interests to identify and work up schemes to improve the environment within the borough through planting schemes or other projects that will support the environment.

Reasons for Recommendation

Supports the Council’s commitment to develop and consider projects to protect the environment.

Enables the Council to begin a programme of planting to support its environmental aspirations.

Enables the Council to work with other professional groups develop funding and a wider planting programme.

Enables the Council to fully integrate with the Community Forest and its partners, in turn giving direct access to all associated benefits.