Greener Streets

We have worked in partnership with Camden's Arboricultural Service to introduce 35 new trees throughout the area since 2005, in addition to the replacement of damaged or stolen trees. Where possible we have consulted local residents and businesses on the choice of tree species to be planted adjacent to their properties.

We were particularly pleased with the avenue of 'Amelanchier Lamarckii' trees (Common name: Snowy Mespilus), chosen for their beautiful white spring blossom and crimson autumn foliage, which were planted along the Marchmont Parade in May 2010, although we were less than pleased when the Council's contractor removed the watering tubes of two of these trees, which resulted in their early demise. There are more details about the Marchmont Parade Project elsewhere on this web site. Local residents have taken responsibility for keeping these tree pits and the adjacent protective hedge planted with attractive seasonal flowers.

The trees shown in the photo opposite were twice vandalized by 'passing strangers' until we asked the Council to install protective metal 'cages', which have allowed the present trees to survive and thrive. Further damage was inflicted on two new trees in Coram Street, following the premature removal of protective cages and stakes prior to the Olympics, although the Council arranged for their contractor to replace them immediately, even though it was June and well past the winter planting season. The Council made an exception in this case when we promised that Russell Court residents would take responsibility for watering the trees throughout the summer. There is a lot of useful information about trees on Camden's web site (link below), including links to other related web sites. Please let us know if you would like to see a tree planted in a particular location, or you can contact the Council direct. You can also help to keep street trees alive during the dry summer period by watering them in the evenings.

In 2006, with a small grant from Groundwork Camden, we provided Window Box Gardening workshops for residents in Marchmont Street, which enabled us to provide 50 free 'self-watering' window boxes, complete with soil and plants, in an attempt to kick-start the greening of local street frontages. Our subsequent window box awards helped to keep this interest alive, although the frequent turnover of residents has made it difficult to sustain the quality and quantity of displays. A similar window box workshop was organised at the Marchmont Street Party 2012, in which 50 window boxes were given to householders throughout our area of benefit, thanks to a grant from Big Lottery Fund/Groundwork UK. We invite all residents and business with a street frontage to consider installing a window box, ornamental trees or other such greenery to make the area more attractive for all.

Since the demise of Povey's in September 2012, only one decent independent supplier of plants remains in the area - Vital Flowers in Leigh Street.

Additional Info:  

http://www.camden.gov.uk/trees
 
 

Created On 04 November 2010