Council to replant trees at Howard Centre
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council will be planting trees at the main entrance of the Howard Centre, WGC, this February, replacing the large Lombardy Poplar trees that stood at the same spot.
Two of the trees were removed due to signs of internal decay, posing a risk to public safety. The remaining trees were smaller and their fragile nature made them susceptible to damage.
The replacement planting will feature Fastigiate Oak trees, carefully selected for their suitability and resilience. They offer superior wood strength compared to Lombardy Poplars and ensure longevity and stability, even in challenging weather conditions. Fastigiate Oak trees also offer greater decay resistance, and naturally grow in an upright manner, creating an appearance that aligns with the Garden City’s aesthetic vision.
This latest planting follows recent initiatives including the planting of 31 fruit trees at five community orchard sites and a further 20 Lobel Elm trees across the borough and is part of the council’s wider Tree and Woodland Strategy. The strategy aims to secure a long-term future for the borough’s trees and woodlands and provide management and protection for generations to come.
Cllr Sandreni Bonfante, Executive Member, Environment, said:
“I'd like to thank everybody for their patience and support while this essential maintenance and planting has been underway. The planting of the Oak trees is vital for us to safeguard the local area and support a thriving, natural environment. We look forward to seeing the results at the Howard Centre and would like to thank the planting team for their continued hard work improving our landscape.”