New Tree Management Policy adopted to protect and grow Stroud district’s treescape

Stroud District Council has adopted a new Tree Management Policy, setting out a clear vision to protect, manage and expand tree cover across the district for the benefit of people, nature and the climate.

The policy was approved at Environment Committee on 23 April and formalises the council’s approach to caring for trees as vital natural assets that support biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience and enhance community wellbeing.

Stroud district is already known for its rich and distinctive landscapes. The new policy builds on this by recognising trees as essential green infrastructure, alongside roads and buildings, and commits to managing them using up to date arboricultural best practice so they remain safe, healthy and resilient as the climate continues to change.

A key focus of the policy is to ensure all communities benefit from access to trees and green spaces, while identifying and targeting areas where tree cover is currently limited.

The policy also highlights the wider benefits trees bring, including carbon storage, cooling, flood mitigation, improved air quality and stronger connections for wildlife. It sets out eight priorities, including increasing tree canopy cover, protecting ancient and veteran trees, maintaining public safety and encouraging more community involvement in planting and care.

Cllr Martin Pearcy, Chair of Environment Committee, said:
“Trees play such an important role in our district, from shaping our landscape to supporting wildlife and improving our health and wellbeing. This policy strengthens how we look after the trees we already have and sets a clear direction for the future.”

Rebecca Charley, Strategic Lead for Nature Recovery and Biodiversity, added:
“We want to see a district where trees are valued and cared for, where canopy cover is expanded in the right places, and where communities are actively involved in shaping their local environment.”

The council will continue to work with partners, community groups and volunteers to deliver the policy on the ground.

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