Decision details

Purpose of report: In 2022, officers undertook an opportunity mapping exercise (with the help of external consultant landscape architects) to find suitable sites for new tree planting within York’s urban areas.
The Council Plan contains a commitment plant 4,000 trees within York’s urban area in response to the declared climate and nature emergencies.
Thirteen sites were planted in 2023/24 with c2,500 trees putting the council well on the way to achieving its goal. These sites were fully funded by external grant, including 3yrs maintenance.
A further 47 sites, mainly council owned land, are now being considered for planting in 2024/25.

The report seeks in-principle approval to progress these sites towards delivery subject to relevant external consultation and successful external funding bid.

The action date for this item has been changed to 15 October 2024 as we are awaiting a final report from our consultants on site suitably and potential constraints which will need to be reviewed and consulted on internally. This report will be submitted on 30 August, which would not allow us to meet the deadline for publishing papers ahead of the Executive Member Decision Session on 17 September 2024.

Resolved:

i)   That the categorisation of remaining planting opportunities into distinct planting specification types and a process of market engagement to assess implementation costs – accepting the risks and opportunities associated with planting trees within York’s urban area, particularly on sites within a highway setting, be approved.

Reason: To enable effective market engagement to establish accurate pricing of planting proposals, whilst understanding the risks and opportunities if tree planting within York’s urban area, especially highways settings.

ii)   That delegated authority be granted to the Director of City Development in consultation with the Director of Finance and Director of Governance to award delivery contracts subject to grant funding bids being successful.

Reason: So that contract procurement can proceed swiftly following confirmation of grant funding.