3 October 2025

South Cambridgeshire District Council is again inviting parish and town councils to take part in its popular Six Free Trees scheme, which has already helped plant 758 trees in communities since its launch.

South Cambridgeshire District Council is again inviting parish and town councils to take part in its popular Six Free Trees scheme, which has already helped plant 758 trees in communities since its launch.

The initiative offers each parish or town council the opportunity to claim either six small trees (whips) or one large pot-grown tree, with a choice of native species.

Trees are delivered along with stakes, ties, and supports to help them establish – all town or parish councils need to do is plant and care for them.

Generally, free trees given out as part of the scheme can be planted on parish land or school grounds, and schools interested in participating are encouraged to contact their parish or town council to apply on their behalf.

The Six Free Trees Scheme has been run by South Cambridgeshire District Council since 2019, making this its fifth year in operation. As a result, some parish or town councils may find they have limited space for more trees. The District Council will therefore also consider providing free trees for other publicly accessible locations that are not on parish or town council or school land. This is subject to permission from the landowner and the District Council's approval.

South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Lead Cabinet Member for Environment, Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, said: "We’re proud to continue supporting tree planting across South Cambridgeshire. Trees play a vital role in enhancing biodiversity, improving air quality, and helping communities adapt to climate change. The Six Free Trees Scheme is a simple but powerful way for local parish and town councils to contribute to a greener future."

Those wanting to claim free trees should complete an online form. Applications will close on 30 November – but the District Council encourages early applications to ensure timely delivery and planting during the optimal season.

The opening of the scheme for this year comes shortly after the District Council launched a consultation on its draft Climate and Nature Strategy for the years ahead.