Stevenage launches 80 Trees for 80 Years

This is a landmark tree planting project that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

The first trees were planted on Wednesday 28 October, with the ceremonial planting of the first and final trees by Stevenage Mayor Lloyd Briscoe along with local people and Green Space Volunteers.

The first tree was planted at Walden End, opposite Vista Tower and the final tree at Hampson Park.

Over the autumn, 80 selected trees will be planted along the four-mile heritage trail that weaves through some of the neighbourhoods that have shaped Stevenage's growth since its designation as Britain's first New Town. The project has been designed not only to commemorate this important milestone but also to enhance the town's green infrastructure, biodiversity and resilience to climate change.

Beginning in Bedwell, the route will pass through Broadwater, Shephall and Chells, ending at Hampson Park in Pin Green, symbolically tracing Stevenage's journey from its earliest post war neighbourhoods to the town we know today. The remaining 78 trees will be planted in the coming weeks, completing the trail and establishing a lasting green legacy across the town.

Councillor Rob Broom, Cabinet member for Environment, Planning and Transport at Stevenage Borough Council said: “Ever since I lived here in Stevenage, I’ve always been delighted with the variety and number of trees across the town. The 80 Trees for 80 Years scheme is a great way to bring a variety of trees to celebrate how our town developed as well as having a positive environmental impact into the future.”

To find out more about the new trees and where to follow the tree trail as it is planted this autumn, visit 80-trees-for-stevenage-at-80