Network Rail pledges £1 million for tree-planting

Network Rail have pledged to spend £1 million on planting trees in the South of England. 

The British Railway company said they will work with The Tree Council to plant at least 10,000 trees in the first 12 months.

Over the next three years, Network Rail said they would set up their ‘local planting schemes’ in Kent, Sussex, south London, Surrey and Hampshire. 

Network Rail recently stated on their website that their target of 10,000 trees and shrubs has been exceeded, adding that they expect their total to amount to 25,000 by 2024. 

The managing director of Network Rail Southern region, John Halsall, said: “We run almost a third of Britain’s rail services and we’re committed to doing that in a way that uses less energy, cuts carbon emissions and waste and creates cleaner air for people and passengers.

“We’re so excited to be working with The Tree Council and our local communities in the south to create sustainable green spaces that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

“By working together, we have a real opportunity, not only to create diverse habitats that enhance and protect our wildlife, but also to protect the safe and reliable running of the railway for our passengers.”

The trees will not be planted near the railway lines as many of them were blocked by fallen trees during some of the recent storms. 

Instead, Network Rail said they are trialling placing mixtures of wildflowers, hedgerows and grassland near the tracks, to reduce the delays caused by leaves on the line and fallen trees. 

The Tree Council’s CEO, Sara Lom, commented: “We welcome this pledge from Network Rail Southern region as part of their wider sustainability strategy. 

“As the umbrella charity for the UK tree sector, we are delighted to have the opportunity to join with volunteers and local communities to plant and care for more trees and hedgerows across the country. 

“Working together, we will create beautiful green spaces that benefit people, wildlife and the planet both now and into the future.”