MORE than 20 trees have been planted in a Downend green space as part of plans to create a “pocket nature reserve”.
More than 30 volunteers of all ages gathered to plant 21 trees, including small leaf limes, wild service berries and beech at Hill House Park.
The event in late February was part of a plan to enhance the park next to Hill House Road, which is being put into action by volunteer group Friends of Hill House Park with the support of South Gloucestershire Council and Downend & Bromley Heath Parish Council.
Plans to enhance the park with new hedgerows and trees, a wildlife pond and accessible paths, were first set out last year.
The volunteer friends group was launched to help, and the parish council has signed a ‘tenancy at will’ agreement to take on half of the site.
Friends chair and South Gloucestershire councillor Katie Cooper said the inaugural tree planting event was a “significant milestone”, bringing the group’s vision a step closer to reality.
Cllr Cooper said: “This is a day we’ve been working toward since we formed the Friends group.
“Seeing the community come together to physically begin the transformation of this space is incredibly moving.
“Each tree planted represents our commitment to creating a natural haven for both wildlife and residents.
“South Glos Tree Team said they had never had as many volunteers for a planting event, showing the passion for the success of the project.
“The trees where chosen for their ability to support nature and their climate resilience.”
Cllr Cooper said the planting was the “first tangible step” in transforming the park, with more trees planted in March and plans for a wildflower meadow, pond construction, bird and bat boxes to follow.
Negotiations continue for the parish council to take on the remaining half of the park, which includes the historic beech trees and entrance area at its northern end.
The friends welcome new members and volunteers, and hold their next meeting on June 5, at 7pm in the hall behind Aspirations in Hill House Road.
For more information email friendsofhillhousepark@gmail.com, call 0779 003 9332 or visit the group’s Facebook page.