Trees for Congleton – Completed Sites
Quinta Park Play Area,
West Heath
Description
This large green space, once part of a field, is completely surrounded by gardens, but its southern boundary follows the overgrown remains of an old hedgerow which includes two large mature oak trees. It contains a play area, fitness equipment and informal kickabout area. A line of cherry trees had been planted at the western end.
Children from nearby Quinta Primary School helped Cheshire Wildlife Trust and Trees for Congleton volunteers to plant copses of silver birch trees, with oak, pine and rowan in 2020, together with a small orchard in the NE corner. In 2023 two more classes of schoolchildren helped to plant a mixed native hedgerow along part of the northern boundary (shown on plan below). The scheme was supported by the Mersey Forest, the Tree Council and the William Dean Trust.
Planting benefits
- Carbon storage, shade and shelter to help mitigate effects of climate change
- Addition to green network, providing habitat, flowers and berries for wildlife
- Orchard for food, amenity & wildlife
- More visual interest and varied play opportunities.
Management
Once new planting is established, generally after one year, it is handed over to Congleton Town Council’s Streetscape team which already looks after green spaces in the town. Cheshire East Council (Ansa) may also be involved, working alongside our Town Council team. Fruit trees are pruned by volunteers. It is appreciated that many residents help by picking litter when visiting the green space.
Note that some, but not all, of the young trees planted can be coppiced (by workers trained in woodland management) if in future years there is any conflict with other uses. This would also help to develop a varied age structure in the planting.
It is intended that the hedge is maintained at around the height of nearby fences, with sides trimmed only lightly, or in alternate years to allow the hedge to thicken and flowers and berries to be produced.
Would you like to be a friend of Quinta Park green space?
We would love local residents to become ‘friends’ of the trees and plants planted in the area. A ‘friend’ would keep an eye on the site and report any damage or problems, or indeed how the plants are flourishing! As this is one of the Town Council’s 30 Biodiversity Sites any information on wildlife or suggestions for enhancement would be welcomed.
Please fill in the form with your contact details and a member of the team will be in touch.
Get Involved………
If you have been inspired by what you have read, want to volunteer or join the Congleton Partnership…….we are waiting to hear from you!