By Chris Story

Last updated at 11:07, Saturday, 28 January 2012

Green shoots are emerging in a project that is part of efforts to enhance Penrith.

A raft of schemes are ongoing to boost the traditional part of town centre and ensure there are strong links between it and the landmark New Squares development.

And one of them involves adding a bit of colour to the area.

The “greening” programme aims to make places more welcoming for residents, visitors and commuters.

Now, the first of what supporters hope will be a number of new trees have been planted.

Eden councillors Henry Sawrey-Cookson and Dawn Stobbart, who have appealed for people to come forward with planting sites, helped plant two native downy birch trees in front of the town hall. Mr Sawrey-Cookson said: “The greening of a town can uplift people’s spirits. Trees breathe in carbon dioxide and release oxygen. A loss of trees in a town is a loss of pride.

“The start of the greening programme will see birch trees being planted outside the town hall, then with support and suggestions from the public, the council will seek to identify other sites around the town where trees can be appropriately placed.

“I hope this is an initiative that the public will wholeheartedly support.”

The first trees planted were bought from Weasdale Nurseries at Ravenstonedale.

Work by the council is being supported by community organisations the Vitality of Penrith Group (VoP) and Penrith Action for Community (PACT) Transition.

Ms Stobbart praised the work already carried out by VoP’s environmental champion, Peter Ward, to create a more vibrant townscape in Penrith with other plantings – a move she believes has been well supported by businesses.

She added: “This will add vibrancy to Penrith during the spring and summer.

“The birch trees will be a welcome addition to the gardens at the front of the town hall, which are already well maintained by the council’s grounds maintenance contractor, Enterprise.

“We will look to see where trees and plants can be added to other council land around Penrith to improve the public realm.”

Anyone who wants to donate money towards a tree, or has a suggestion where they could be planted, can call the council on 01768 817817 or email customer.services@eden.gov.uk.

First published at 08:59, Saturday, 28 January 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk