In February 2021, we planted 12 trees on the grass verge in Waterhouse Lane situated adjacent to the fields, from the village hall towards the A217.
Last week we completely the second phase of this project, planting another 14 tree on the second part of the grass verge.
Funds for this project came from the Reigate and Banstead Borough Council (RBBC) Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL).
The project was supported by our RBBC Councillors; Councillor Neame, Councillor Parnall and Councillor Archer and we thank them for their help and efforts in bringing the project to fruition. We also thank the CIL team at RBBC who provided much assistance, providing funds and co-ordinating with Surrey County Council. The Mayor of Reigate and Banstead will officially open our tree-lined walkway on 5th June 2022.
The trees have been selected to provide a mixture of interest throughout the year; Spring blossom, Summer leaf colour and Autumn leaf colour.
The project underlines a recognition of the great need to replant and rejuvinate areas where trees have been lost, in order to improve the landscape of our area for many hundreds of years to come. After completing the project our thoughts turned to the possibility of re-wilding. There is a campaign initiated by Surrey County Council, called The Blue Campaign – increasing biodiversity in grass verges. The idea is that local residents can opt out of county mowing schedules in order to encourage wild flowers to establish in certain areas. We think our tree-lined verge would be a great place to do this. As I sign off as Vice Chair, the KRA would like to hear from residents on this subject, or any other ideas that residents may have, about similar projects that could benefit our village. Please follow the link and read about The Blue Campaign.
Janine Connick
Out-going Vice Chair KRA
