Canopy cover continues to grow across Wirral as councillors consider tree strategy
A report due before councillors next week highlights progress in growing Wirral’s canopy cover, managing tree health and increasing opportunities for residents to get involved in caring for the borough’s natural environment.
Members of Wirral Council’s Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee will receive the latest update on the strategy, highlighting progress made over the last year and setting out priorities for the year ahead.
The report outlines a range of achievements, including the completion of a borough-wide ash dieback assessment, continued tree planting programmes, growth of the Wirral Tree Warden Network and the retention of Tree City of the World status, recognising the borough's commitment to trees and urban forestry.
It also highlights how planting delivered through the strategy is projected to create almost 36 hectares of future canopy cover, equivalent to around 50 football pitches, helping to support biodiversity, improve air quality and contribute to climate resilience across the borough.
Councillors will also hear how residents and volunteers continue to play an important role in expanding and caring for Wirral's treescape. The report highlights the growth of the Tree Warden Network, the introduction of a new Sponsor a Tree scheme and the launch of self-guided Tree Trails in local parks.
Looking ahead, priority actions for 2026-27 include delivering new woodland and park management plans, further developing the community tree nursery at Dibbinsdale, supporting community participation in tree planting and monitoring emerging pests and diseases affecting tree health.
The committee will be asked to note the progress made through the Tree, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy and endorse priorities for the coming year as the council continues its work to protect existing trees, expand canopy cover and support a greener, more resilient Wirral.
The reports considered by the committee can be viewed on the council website under the agenda and papers for the Environment, Climate Emergency and Transport Committee meeting held on 14 September 2026. A recording of the meeting will also be available to watch online.
