An ambitious plan to make Hull and East Yorkshire a greener and more pleasant place to live and work was launched formally today (Friday, 2 April) by Deputy Prime Minster, John Prescott, MP.

The Heywoods initiative – a multi-agency partnership including the Forestry Commission, Woodland Trust, National Urban Forestry Unit, Hull and East Riding Councils and local businesses and community groups– was launched locally in February with a host of community events.

Now a detailed plan of action has been drawn up spelling out the project’s goals and developing a green “game plan” to transform neighbourhoods.

Launching the strategy, John Prescott said:

“More than a century ago the Victorians understood the importance of providing trees, parks and open spaces for people to enjoy. But for too many years, we have focused on building houses rather than creating attractive places with the jobs and services people need. This Strategy is an opportunity to improve on the legacy of our Victorian ancestors, and provide a healthier, greener environment.”

Hull and the East Riding is currently bottom of the UK league table for woodland cover. Only 2.6 per cent of the land is covered with trees, compared to the national average of 8.4 per cent. Hull also has the fewest trees of any major urban centre in England, and has no surviving ancient woodland.

That adds up to less attractive street-scapes, poor opportunities for recreation and limited places for wildlife. Heywoods will tackle this by initiating planting and environmental schemes and fostering community action.

The Government’s England Forestry Strategy emphasises the important contribution made by woodlands and trees in restoring former industrial land, enhancing local environments and creating green settings for future development in and around urban areas. Lord Clark, Chairman of the Forestry Commission, declared that the Heywoods project will play an important part in this overall vision. He said:

“We now appreciate in a much broader sense the need for trees and wooded landscapes in the heart of our communities. The benefits they bring are varied and tangible. They create a better place to live and work, help attract inward investment by improving the environment and provide safe places for people to exercise and stay healthy.

“We are committed to working with our partners on this project to ensure the targets unveiled today become a grass roots reality for ordinary people in Hull and the East Riding.”

Media calls to Liz Seale (Forestry Commission) on 01223 314546, or Richard Darn (GNN) on 0113 2836598