Trees for Congleton – Completed Sites
Thirlmere Court, West Heath
Description
This large green space, formerly a field, slopes from the boundary with Heath View Care Home down towards Thirlmere Court. There are some overgrown willows at the southern end, the remnants of a former hedgerow on the north east boundary, and a few mature cherry and other trees elsewhere, but the site is generally very open with views over the West Heath suburbs. It links with the Newcastle Road green space.
A long mixed native hedge with hedgerow trees was planted along the eastern boundary by Trees for Congleton volunteers and local residents in 2022, together with an expanded orchard in 2023. All the planting was funded by the Tree Council. There is much scope for further planting in future to improve the existing poor age structure, and add amenity and biodiversity interest, subject to agreement from West Heath residents.
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
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 will be pruned by volunteers. It is appreciated that many residents help by picking litter when visiting the green space.
It is intended that the hedge is maintained at around the height of the adjoining fence , with sides trimmed only lightly, or in alternate years, to allow the hedge to thicken and flowers and berries to be produced. Thorny suckers, growing on the fenceline, and probably from rootstocks of ornamental trees nearby, will need to be removed before they cause a nuisance.
Would you like to be a friend of Thirlmere Court 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 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 below 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!