English Landscapes and West Wiltshire District Council Provide a Living Legacy
A total of 88 new trees have been planted at Westbury and Trowbridge Cemeteries by English Landscapes on behalf of West Wiltshire District Council. The planting scheme, coordinated by Phil Hart, Grounds Maintenance Customer Officer for West Wiltshire District Council, includes the use of traditional Yew, English Oak and Silver Birch - all species indigenous to the area.
Blending in with the existing planting, the scheme will help to raise the bio-diversity index as well as provide nesting sites and food sources for the local wildlife. A lasting memorial for remembered loved ones and a fitting and tranquil backdrop for quiet contemplation have been created - a connection to both our heritage and our future.
Organic compost was used to ensure the good establishment of the trees. This 100% natural product was manufactured from recycled green waste collected in West Wiltshire and processed by Hills Waste Solutions Limited near Calne. Local householders will be pleased to know that their diligence with collecting and re-cycling green waste will now go on to provide a living legacy as these new trees thrive and grow.
Gareth Banks, Grounds and Cleansing Manager, West Wiltshire District Council said ‘we are pleased to have developed this project to ensure that these cemeteries will have specimen trees in years to come. This scheme was designed with both aesthetics and wildlife in mind and being able to re-use waste generated within the West Wiltshire area means that we are all helping to do our bit for the environment. We are delighted with the partnership working of English Landscapes and Hills Waste Solutions’.
English Landscapes has been working in partnership with the Council since 2002, last year winning a major re-tender for an innovative new contract which saw the two functions of grounds maintenance and street cleansing amalgamated under a joint approach between West Wiltshire District Council, Wiltshire County Council and West Wiltshire Housing Society. As part of this contract English Landscapes manage and maintain Westbury and Trowbridge Cemeteries.
Councillor Linda Conley, West Wiltshire District Council’s portfolio holder for the environment said: 'it’s well done to English Landscapes. The great improvements seen in both Westbury and Trowbridge Cemeteries are clear to see, and is especially laudable because of the environmental benefits. There is still much to be done but a really good start has been made.'
Danny Mitchell, Area Manager, English Landscapes said ‘this project demonstrates just how local authorities in partnership with companies like Hills Waste Solutions and English Landscapes can make long term improvements for local communities such as Westbury and Trowbridge. This collaborative working has shown benefits to both people and wildlife that will continue for years to come.’
Cemeteries are an important green space in our outdoor environment, helping us to engage with nature and the cycles of life through the seasons. They are a valuable habitat for wildlife and a place of connection to our remembered loved ones.
