Plant a tree for jubilee
The Diocese would like to encourage and support parishes in participating in the Queen’s Green Canopy, which is an exciting project that aims to enhance the country’s environment and landscapes to thank the Queen for her exceptional service.
Churchyards
Trees make an important contribution to our churchyards, enhancing their character and supporting wildlife.
Parishes wishing to plant one or more trees in their churchyard will need to apply for the Archdeacon’s permission through the List B process.
The DAC favours native trees, as these trees tend to fit in best with the character and eco-systems of our churchyards. When choosing a species, it is important to consider how large the tree will become when fully grown, and to ensure that the height, span and root depth will not cause any issues in relation to the church building, churchyard wall or any other structures. In general, it is best to avoid planting new trees in close proximity to the church building or any walls.
Please see here for information about making a List B application:
https://www.chichester.anglican.org/archdeacons-pe...
It would be helpful if parishes could include the following information with their List B application:
• A plan and/or photographs of the churchyard showing where the tree/s will be planted, in relation to the church building and any other structures and/or trees
• Details of the tree to be planted, including the species
• A PCC motion in support of the proposal
Parsonage Houses
The section titled “Gardens” within the Housing Handbook outlines the position with regard to trees planted in parsonage house gardens.
Generally speaking clergy can choose to plant trees in their garden without permisson from the Diocese, but they are strongly encouraged to speak with the Property Department before any planting takes place.
In order to avoid any issues with root structures, and potential foundation damage, trees are not permitted to be planted within 12 metres of the house. It is also advisable not to plant trees on the boundary of the property when next to a public highway.
Glebe (Houses and Land)
Property held as glebe is specifically held for the benefit of the stipends fund. Trees are not permitted to be planted on glebe land without the express permission of the diocese.
If you are unsure about the designation of the house you live in, then please contact the Property Department for guidance.
Tenanted Properties
Where we have tenant occupying a property (whether held as parsonage, glebe, or other designation) then no tree planting shall take place unless the expression permission of the diocese is given.
Schools
Any Church of England School wishing to plant a tree must first ascertain who owns the land on which it is proposed to plant. The landowner’s permission should be obtained before any planting takes place.
As with parsonage houses, to avoid any issues with root structures, and potential foundation damage, trees are not permitted to be planted within 12 metres of the school. It is also advisable not to plant trees on the boundary of the school when next to a public highway.
Please register your tree on the official map: https://queensgreencanopy.org/map-education-hub/qg... and let the Lieutenancy know as well. For the Archdeaconries of Hasting and Brighton & Lewes please e-mail Mark Whittaker at Mark.Whitaker@ruralsussex.org.uk and for the Archdeaconries of Chichester and Horsham please e-mail Caroline Nicholls on carrynix@gmail.com
For the official tree planting guide click here