SEEND residents have shown “overwhelming support” for plans to create a new permanent forest on 19 acres of land near the village.
Nearly 40 residents attended a recent open day at the site for a tour and to meet the trustees of Avon Needs Trees, the new charity behind the project to create the forest on land to the north of Seend, between the village and the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Chair of Avon Needs Trees, Nikki Jones said, “The support for the project was overwhelming! The day at Seend went really well – almost 40 people turned up and got tours of the land – much discussed. The best bit of the day was finding out how many other people are doing good ecological stuff on their land. It seems we will have some very good neighbours, which will help with connectivity for nature.”
The charity, which launched last year, has already completed their first purchase of land – 34 acres at Hazeland between Chippenham and Calne – and is inviting Seend residents to come and visit the site.
“We are planning to invite Seend locals to Hazeland, on 1st November, between 10am and 4pm,” said Nikki.
“Anyone interested should contact us on contact@avonneedstrees.org.uk and we will slot them into covid-safe groups staggered through day.”
The proposed new forest will include a community orchard, help boost local biodiversity, and assist with local flood management.
Avon Needs Trees has launched a fundraising campaign to help raise the £175,000 needed to purchase the land – and are hoping to raise at least £5,000 from public donations. The remainder of the £175,000 needed is “anticipated” to be raised via trusts and businesses.
To support and donate to the Avon Needs Trees fundraiser for the land at Seend, visit the website: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ avonneedstrees
