Herefordshire Council Seeks Public Input on Tree and Hedgerow Protection Strategy

Residents of Herefordshire are encouraged to submit their opinions regarding the optimal methods for safeguarding and enhancing the county’s trees, hedgerows, and woodlands. According to Herefordshire Council, contributions are sought to help shape a strategy that will outline a vision for improving the management of current tree and hedgerow resources, as well as “the expansion of tree cover and hedgerow networks.” The council requested submissions from all sectors, encompassing environmental organizations, landowner groups, industries, and individual citizens. This online consultation period is scheduled to conclude on 8 December. Elissa Swinglehurst, the cabinet member for the environment, stated that the council-led initiative would establish a framework for safeguarding and improving tree coverage. She further explained: “Its aim is to consider not only trees, hedgerows and woodland within the rural county but also aspire to increasing our street trees and canopy coverage within the urban environment.” Information has been gathered, and following the consultation process and engagement with stakeholders, a preliminary vision will be refined, as per the online consultation hub. The implementation of the definitive strategy is anticipated by March next year.