In recent weeks, 25 semi-mature trees have been planted in the city centre’s primary green space. This was the start of a tree planting programme to secure its long-term future.
The replacement planting scheme within Queens Gardens will increase the diversity of tree species, adding more seasonal colour and futureproofing the landscape for future generations.
Now, the next phase of the planned works to Queens Gardens will get underway. As part of the ongoing programme to regenerate Queens Gardens, 27 Poplar trees will be removed.
These trees are being replaced with 130 native and non-native species. So far, 25 trees including Metasequoia Glyptostroboides (Dawn Redwood) and Taxodium Distichum (Swamp Cypress) have been planted.
The newly planted trees will create a more flexible space to facilitate large scale events whilst reflecting the original Sir Frederick Gibberd design. This is a key element of the major restoration works which are being delivered as part of Hull Maritime, funded by Hull City Council.
In total, 99 trees will be planted ahead of the bird nesting season, with the remaining 31 trees to be planted in the next planting season.
A detailed arboricultural survey was completed in 2019, this confirmed the trees within the central avenue are entering the latter stages of their anticipated lifespan. As they continue to decline, the trees may become dangerous and lose limbs. Since May 2023, three trees have fallen due to their deterioration and weather conditions.
The removal of the trees will get underway from Monday 15 January.
Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, said: “So far, the work to plant semi-mature trees in Queens Gardens has gone extremely well. It is always disappointing when it is necessary to remove existing trees and the decision wasn’t taken lightly.
“Trees are a very important feature within the gardens and that’s why the council has prioritised investment in a high-quality planting scheme. To provide the gardens with a sustainable future, it’s important the right trees are planted in the right locations.”
Hull Maritime is hoping to work with several artists and craftspeople to deliver an event in the coming months to utilise some of the trees that have been removed. Further details will be released.
Hull City Council has a 3:1 ratio, for every tree removed, three will be replanted within the gardens and across other locations within the city centre, including Connexin Live, South Blockhouse, Liddell Street Park and Hull History Centre.
Since 2021, 115 trees have been felled due to health and safety concerns in relation to the boundary walls or due to them dying or being in a dangerous condition.
As part of the wider plans to refresh the gardens, extensive work is ongoing by local contractor, CR Reynolds. New boundary walls are being built, along with new amphitheatre seating and new accessible ramps.
