MORE than 100 trees will be planted in parks and open spaces across Southampton to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) is a tree planting initiative created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee which invites people from across the United Kingdom to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’.

Commemorating 70 years since the Queen’s ascension to the throne, the trees will be planted in Riverside Park, Townhill Green and West Park to create a Green Canopy.
Already 40 trees have been planted in Townhill Green and a further 70 oaks are in the process of being planted in Riverside Park. 

Southampton has been awarded ‘Champion City’ status under The Queen’s Green Canopy (QGC) tree planting initiative, as part of celebrations of the monarch’s Platinum Jubilee. 

Achieved through work of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, the accolade recognises cities across the UK that have trees and woodlands as a central part of their plans for green spaces.

Councillor Steven Galton, Cabinet Member for Environment said: “To be named a ‘Champion City’ for the Queen’s Green Canopy is a huge honour. 

"We know that planting more trees has huge environmental and mental wellbeing benefits, but the fact that these trees will become a legacy for the benefit of future generations is incredibly unique.

“As we bid to become UK City of Culture 2025, initiatives such as this enables Southampton to further highlight our focus on the environment and sustainability, having an active role in this special and sustainable project commemorating 70 years of service, is something we are extremely proud of.

“Thousands of native trees have already been planted as part of the Council’s commitment to protecting and enhancing our natural environment and as part of our Greener City Plan we will see thousands more over the coming years."