Since 2008, Folkestone Town Council has allocated a modest budget to sponsor the planting of trees and flowerbeds in the highways and parks around the Town.
Over the years many of the Town’s trees have been removed because they were either dead or dangerous but not all of these trees have been replaced.
As well as enhancing Folkestone’s street scene, planting is part of the pledge to help fight carbon emissions. The Town Council is building on its tree planting each year to ensure that new trees are planted to restore our natural habitat.
Thriving urban forests can:
Much of the towns urban trees and woodland are made up of very hardy species that are resistant to pollution, such as silver birch, sycamore and London Plane.
New trees are planted in the winter months, however, despite their hardiness, many of the new trees suffer during the dry weather so if you have a new tree outside or near to your house, a couple of buckets of water once a week will make a difference. A little maintenance goes a long way with a new tree and will help it flourish.
If you mow grass verges, please be careful when cutting around trees, any damage to the bark will reduce the life of the tree.
Residents are asked to get in touch should they wish to suggest a tree planting site(s) in their ward to be considered by Folkestone Town Council’s Tree Working Group by contacting enquiries@folkestone-tc.gov.uk or by contacting your Ward Councillor.
Folkestone Town Council are on the lookout for volunteer Tree Wardens. Tree Wardens are people who volunteer to gather information and to encourage practical projects relating to trees in the community.
You do not need to be an expert because training can be made available to provide you with the basic knowledge. What is important is that you should genuinely care for trees and your environment.
You can decide yourself how much time you can give to the role, and decide how you can work being a Tree Warden in with your normal routine.
A Tree Warden can help in lots of different ways:
The flower beds and planters are free for the townspeople to enjoy as a visual enhancement in the area and their provision supports local retailers, businesses and other organisations in creating an attractive location increasing the footfall of shoppers and visitors.
Folkestone Town Council have been sponsoring some of the flower beds and planters in Folkestone and Cheriton for over ten years. Its contribution significantly enhances the overall provision for the town.
It was resolved by Members of the Climate & Environment Committee in February 2025 that £25,000 be released to support planting in Folkestone for 2025/26.
Please help us take care of our Trees and Flowerbeds by contacting us to report any issues.