In March 2009 Trees for Cities created an avenue of 12 semi-mature Elm trees at Long Barn Lane Recreation Ground on the Whitley Council Estate. The trees were planted along the route of an informal footpath that has been created through the grass and as they mature will create an impressive feature in otherwise flat parkland.

We were delighted to help plant these disease resistant Elm trees, reintroducing a tree that has been almost lost to Britain in recent decades. Trees for Cities Patron Melvin Benn says: “When Britain’s Elms were wiped out in the 1960s it was a terrible loss. It is fantastic that we are now able to plant a new species of Elm and boost the health of the city at the same time.”

Surrounded on all sides by housing, Long Barn Lane Rec is an important green space in the heart of the Whitley community. Trees for Cities were assisted in the planting by Reading University volunteers taking part in our Plant Your Future volunteering programme.

Trees for Cities relies on donations from individuals in order to deliver projects like the Long Barn Lane Project. Please consider supporting our project work by making a donation or buying a community gift.