HUNDREDS of new trees will be planted across Hereford as part of a project to make the city greener.

The 500 new trees will be given to residents, businesses, organisations, schools and colleges to plant in their garden or on their land.

The project, funded through the government’s Accelerated Towns Fund, will help to create a green canopy in Hereford, Herefordshire Council said.

A variety of tree species is available, all historically cultivated in the UK or raised cultivars of native families of trees, and selected to be suitable for the majority of garden spaces within Hereford City.

Trees will be allocated on a first come first served basis. The scheme will close on March 24, or when all trees have been allocated.

Cllr Ellie Chowns said: “It is a priority in our county plan to improve the natural environment for local communities. Tree planting is a great opportunity for people in Hereford to contribute to the future of the city by helping to create new spaces for nature and a greener environment for future generations.

“Trees bring many benefits for people as well as nature – they are visually attractive, they help improve air quality and they help tackle climate change. In addition to these 500 community trees we are also planning to plant more than 50 trees in the city centre over the coming months to develop more attractive natural green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.”

If you live in Hereford or run a business or organisation in the City and want to find out whether you are eligible and apply for a tree, visit the council website at www.herefordshire.gov.uk/citytrees