Case Study
Rushcliffe Borough Council – Free Tree Scheme Supporting Greener Communities
How Alba Trees helped deliver more than 14,000 native trees directly to residents during National Tree Week.
About the Client
Rushcliffe Borough Council is the local authority for the Rushcliffe district in Nottinghamshire, serving more than 120,000 residents. The council is known for environmental leadership, with strong commitments to tree planting, habitat creation and biodiversity.
The Ecology and Biodiversity Team leads on community-based projects and works closely with volunteer groups, Parish and Town Councils and the borough’s network of Tree Wardens.
Project Overview
Rushcliffe Borough Council launched the Residents’ Free Tree Scheme in 2018 as part of its work to tackle the biodiversity and climate crisis. More than 14,000 free trees have been distributed to households since the scheme began.
In 2024, 1,000 native saplings were made available to residents. These species were chosen for their value to wildlife and their suitability for typical garden settings.
The scheme helps residents enhance their gardens, support wildlife and take climate action at home. Planting trees also improves wellbeing, encourages time outdoors and strengthens community participation.
How Alba Trees Helped
Alba Trees provided a smooth and reliable service throughout the project. This included:
- clear and responsive communication
- high-quality trees well-suited to local soil and climate
- recyclable packaging designed to fit through letterboxes
- delivery timed to coincide with National Tree Week
- advice and support whenever required
The quality of the saplings gave the council confidence that the trees would establish well and deliver long-term benefits for the borough.
Outcomes and Impact
Social Impact:
- 1,000 residents received free trees
- Strengthened local wildlife habitats
- Increased community participation in planting
- Improved wellbeing through outdoor activity
Environmental Impact:
- supports increased tree cover
- enhances biodiversity
- contributes to Nottinghamshire’s Biodiversity Action Plan
The council plans to expand the scheme to include native shrubs so that residents with limited outdoor space can also take part.
Testimonial
“Alba Trees’ professionalism and product quality have been key to the success of this initiative, and we look forward to continuing this.”
If you are planning a community planting scheme, our team can help you source high-quality native trees tailored to your location.
