Longholme Way will be the site of a new 3,200-tree urban forest in the heart of Bedford, and the borough’s first Miyawaki planting project.
The Miyawaki method – named after the Japanese botanist who developed it – is a proven technique for creating rapid-growth, sustainable ‘mini forests’ in urban areas.
Read: ‘New year new tree’ more community tree planting planned across Bedford Borough in 2023
It involves planting a diverse selection of native trees and shrubs closely together, allowing the plants to grow quickly and create a healthy ecosystem.
The resulting forests are not only attractive, but also provide environmental benefits such as improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and increased habitat for local wildlife. You can read more about the method here.
Volunteers will help plant the new forest and although the slots at Longholme Way have been booked up, there is still an opportunity to be involved in future planting sessions in the Borough. Full details can be found on the council website here.
This project is in partnership with the Forest of Marston Vale, Cranfield University and Bedford Rotary Club. It is also supported by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Trees for Climate initiative.
Within 10 years, the 3,200 closely-planed trees will create a mini-forest. The Miyawaki method is estimated to lead to forests growing up to ten times faster than traditional planting styles.
“The Forest of Marston Vale Trust is really excited to bring Trees for Climate grant funding and practical support to help the Borough Council create its first Japanese Miyawaki-inspired urban forest to Bedford,” said a spokesperson for the Forest.
“This small scale, densely planted scheme will create a fast-growing, wildlife-friendly patch of habitat that will add to the wider well-being benefits and landscape of the river corridor.”
The Borough’s Green councillors, have welcomed the project to encourage biodiversity and involve the local community.
“The partnership working with experts at Cranfield University and the Forest of Marston Vale is important too, as is getting local volunteers involved,” said Cllr Lucy Bywater.
“I’ve signed up to help with the planting on the 21 January and I hope the scheme is a success and can be a pilot for more as well as being a learning exercise.”
Success rate of tree planting and adverse weather conditions
During 2022, Bedford Borough, along with many other local authorities and organisations, undertook a large tree-planting initiative as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy project to celebrate HM Queen Elizabeth II’s platinum jubilee.
Over 30,000 trees were planted throughout the borough with an expected failure rate of around 10-20% (according to the agenda of Bedford Borough Council’s Climate Change committee meeting on 3 October 2022.)
However, due to the extreme heat last summer, with Bedfordshire “receiving the highest temperatures and lowest rainfall on record”, failure rates are higher than normal failure rates.
The agenda stated that “Forest of Marston Vale is reporting failure rates of between 50-60% on some of their other sites due to adverse conditions”.
Spring 2023 will provide proof of the effects of the drought on new trees and the agenda cites an agreement with the Forest of Marston Vale to reserve funds to replace any dead trees.
How to get involved
Bedford Borough Council is encouraging communities to help with the planting of the trees and all ages are welcome (under 16s will need to be accompanied by an adult).
No prior experience is necessary, just a willingness to get your hands dirty and help out. Staff will be on hand to help with guidance and advice.
Anyone interested must book in advance and to learn more or sign up to volunteer, please email volunteering@bedford.gov.uk.
Future volunteering opportunities for planting events include:
- Maskell Drive 26 January, 10:30am and 12:30pm – 1,600 trees to be planted in the northern area of Maskell Drive to increase woodland plots. What3Words location; ///hats.mutual.fine
- Duchess Road 3 February, 10:30am – 120 trees to boost the local environment and help reduce noise pollution. What3Words location; ///beam.bucks.tonic
- Thor Drive date TBC – 110 trees to increase diversity in the Thor Drive greenspace. What3Words location; ///daisy.glee.late
Attendees should wear suitable warm clothing, including gloves and boots. Equipment, such as spades and clout hammers will be provided on the day but the Council are inviting people to bring their own, where possible.
Learn more about trees in Bedford Borough at bedford.gov.uk/trees.
