It’s important for our health.

The importance of trees in urban landscapes

Trees are a vital part of urban design and offer a variety of benefits, offering shade in summer and shelter from rain and wind. They also help to keep the air clean and breathable and add value to the culture and economy of the UK’s towns and cities.

Trees make places work, look and feel better

As well as playing a role in climate proofing our neighbourhoods and supporting human health and well-being, they can also help to create conditions for economic success. It is vital that Public Sector decision makers fully realise this potential during the planning and design stages of an urban landscape project.

A healthy and resilient urban treescape requires good quality supplies

Obtaining trees that will be healthy and vigorous, free of insects, diseases and mechanical defects and also well- formed not only requires a good specification, it should warrant a visit to the nursery. A “nursery grown” tree should have spent a minimum of two years in the same nursery. This also ensures that plants can be fully controlled for pests and diseases prior to being transplanted. You must ensure trees have access to the nutrients, oxygen and water they need to fulfil their genetic potential for growth and longevity.

As well as taking the health of the tree into consideration it is of equal importance that decision makers adopt clear standards for the protection, care and support of trees, tree ties and stakes can assist in supporting the trees, and guards can help protect the trees from damage by vehicles, people and dogs.