New North Hykeham nature haven
A new community nature haven will be created in North Hykeham over the winter.
North Kesteven District Council (NKDC) has successfully secured grant support from the Tree Council’s Trees Outside Woodland (TOW) Fund and plans to create a new community coppice.
As it becomes established, the site should become home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species which will be given the chance to thrive in a protected space. Pollinators, insects and birds are expected to make the site home, enhancing the natural environment in the locale, with the trees themselves capturing carbon and contributing to improved air quality.
The project will see native trees planted during winter 2025 on council-owned land, proposed for a site near Belton Park Drive in North Hykeham. The site has been identified for its accessibility, ecological potential, and alignment with the council’s tree planting ambitions.
The proposed planting site is approximately 20% of a 5,300m2 area of grassland, bordered by residential properties and farmland, where existing footpaths will be protected to ensure continued public access and enjoyment of the space.
The project will use 26 native tree species sourced from a Lincolnshire nursery, planted in layers using the Japanese ‘Miyawaki’ planting method to mimic natural forest ecosystems. Planting is planned to take place across the 25/26 winter season and be completed by March 2, 2026.
Local residents, schools, and community groups will be invited to take part in community planting days, with volunteering opportunities available throughout the project - find at Tree Planting Projects webpage.
The Tree Council CEO, Sara Lom said: “Trees outside woodland are the trees we all come across most often – those in our parks, on our streets, and even the hedgerows that help capture carbon and act as heritage highways for a rich array of wildlife.
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Defra to offer this additional Tree Council grant opportunity to benefit people, wildlife and our planet, and especially North Kesteven!”
To find out more about The Tree Council’s Trees Outside Woodland Fund visit: www.treecouncil.org.uk/grants-and-guidance/our-grants/trees-outside-woodland-fund/