Following the action of locals, 10 mature trees have been planted across the borough in Goring, Findon Valley and Offington as a result of the new partnership between Worthing Borough Council and Trees for Streets, a national tree sponsorship scheme and charity.

Trees for Streets enables individuals, communities and businesses to sponsor new trees, enhancing neighbourhoods, supporting biodiversity and recreating Worthing’s tree lined streets. Trees can also be planted in parks through the scheme. 

Some of the first to sign up to the scheme will see their sponsored trees planted this week by members of the council’s parks team.

Two locals, excited to see the tree they had sponsored arrive in their neighbourhood are Isla Bezencon and her daughter Freya, who live in Goring.

Isla said: “We were very excited to take part in this scheme, as for a long time we have looked at the bare verges and felt they could provide more for the local wildlife.

“It was a simple process to apply and now, a few months later, we can see a beautiful Deborah Norway Maple tree growing.

“I think this is a great scheme and would whole-heartedly encourage other people looking to make a positive difference to their neighbourhood to take it up.”

A variety of tree species, including Austrian pine, red oak, field maple and more, have been planted as part of the Worthing Trees for Streets scheme. They are all five to seven-year-old ‘instant impact’ trees which should quickly establish themselves in their new homes.

Cllr Vicki Wells, Worthing’s cabinet member for the environment, said: “It’s fantastic to see the first community-sponsored trees being planted across the town. So far more than 50 trees have been requested since the scheme launched in June and the council teams are working hard to process them all.

“We’re delighted to be partnered with Trees for Streets and with the support of our communities, will transform Worthing’s neighbourhoods into greener spaces that benefit nature and the people living there.

“Trees can be easily sponsored specifically for residential streets - helping to replace those lost or removed over time and I can't wait to hear louder bird song as a direct consequence.

“Anyone looking to create a beautiful lasting and environmentally-friendly impact on their neighbourhood has the opportunity to do so with this fantastic scheme.”

The scheme forms part of the council's drive to make Worthing cleaner, greener and safer, and aims to help create green corridors that support wildlife and connect green spaces across the town. Trees also help create cooler areas during heatwaves, improve air quality and soak up excess water during heavy periods of rain.

Residents looking to find out more about the scheme and get involved can visit: https://www.adur-worthing.gov.uk/sponsor-a-tree/