The QE2 Platinum Wood – A Community Project

To celebrate seventy years of service to the UK, Realms and Commonwealth. Cllr Roy Gerstner proposed planting trees as part of her majesty’s Green Canopy initiative. The land was located and donated by Fenland District Council to Whittlesey Town Council (WTC) for the purpose described.

The project also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint within this part of Fenland. At maturity, 100 trees could remove over 2,000 kilogrammes of carbon from the air annually.

WTC agreed to a donation of £5,000 supporting donations made by many residents that Cllr Gerstner secured. The project became a community lead project with Cllr Roy Gerstner and Eamonn Dorling as coordinators.

Planting trees is a seasonal activity. During the summer of 2022, a local grower discussed species of trees, supports and protection. Peterborough Environmental City Trust (PECT)’s Tony Cook helped with a design suitable for the location. A Coates Fencing and Landscaping specialist helped prepare access and coordinate the delivery of trees and tools to complete the works. PECT provided gloves and spades.

Meanwhile, an offer from the Whittlesey Independent Monumental Masons to provide engraved granite or marble blocks for sponsors to mark their allocated tree(s) is being finalised.

Location:

Off Yarwells Headland opposite the play area. Easy access ramps are in place. The site is flat but can be muddy at times, and there is a small reservoir that visitors should keep away from. Dog walkers regularly exercise their pets in this area. I hope visitors will take the opportunity to walk through the entire area.

Tree Planting:

The safety briefing at 9:30 was followed by activity until, at about noon, a total of 105 trees had been planted. 90 are indigenous species in the main area, with a central space reserved for the planting of Wildflowers. Guards have been installed to reduce damage by wildlife.

The Community Orchard features Pear, Apple and Plum trees in an adjacent area designed to take advantage of sunlight. These trees are protected by wire guards and supported by substantial posts to give the maximum opportunity for establishment.

The entire area is set for future enjoyment, trees grow at various speeds to maturity, and the passing seasons will see development, colour changes and even fruit and nuts in the Autumn. I am indebted to the work put in by donors and those from Street Pride because the only Councillor lending a hand was myself.

Allocation of Trees:

Some residents and organisations pledged a donation in return for a tree(s). Although there cannot be a guarantee of maturity or even the species allocated to each donation, a fair distribution will occur where tokens representing the planted specimen will be drawn and linked to each donation. If a tree does not establish itself, Whittlesey Town Council will endeavour to replace it from existing stock that is vibrant or purchase more. The fruit trees are intended to be a community asset. Therefore, none will be allocated to donations.