A CAMPAIGN to plant thousands of trees across Darlington has seen a major boost after its flagship project was giving financial backing.

Darlington Forest Project, a charitable trust which was formed in November 2019, has been successful in applying for funding for 6,800 trees from the Urban Tree Challenge fund.

The native tree saplings will be planted along the length of Tornado Way, between November to March, in order to increase the tree cover in the East of Darlington.

Roz Henderson, who helps co-ordinate the Darlington Forest Project, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be awarded this grant to help us on our mission to plant trees across the town.

"Trees are vital in so many ways and most importantly mitigate climate change.

“We will be Inviting community groups, local residents and schools to come and help us plant the trees, as well as opening the offer up to individuals.

"All planting will of course be in line with Covid restrictions.”

A number of local councillors are on the management team for the project, which will include close working with the council.

Cllr Mike Renton, who represents Stephenson Ward and has been campaigning for more trees to be planted in the town for many years, said: “This is one of the major entrances to Darlington, and with Amazon now up the road, the roundabout improvements and all the development happening in the area, we really need to improve the look of this road.

"Not to mention the fact that it runs the line of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, which is a world-famous historical asset that we should look after and be proud of.”

Cllr Matthew Snedker, leader of the Green Party, said: “Trees are part of the solution to so many challenges, from climate change to declining health and well-being. Trees work to restore the environment and improve our neighbourhoods and towns.

"Consider stormwater management, urban cooling, air quality improvement and the beauty of seasonal colourful displays.

"Trees do all this and more in a very cost-effective way.

"No single man-made asset will match what a mature tree can deliver, all while contributing to the conditions for economic success.”

For more information about Darlington Forest Project, visit their website