The town of Hartlepool recently marked a significant event focused on its cultural connection to trees. The official launch of “Stories from Hartlepool’s Parks” took place at the Hartlepool Art Gallery, a project spearheaded by Trees for Cities.
Celebrating Hartlepool’s Green Spaces
This initiative, supported by Hartlepool Borough Council, aims to engage residents in sharing their cherished stories linked to local parks. Participants from diverse backgrounds, including community groups, care homes, schools, and youth organizations, contributed their narratives. These personal accounts have been transformed into vibrant illustrations and artwork displayed at the gallery.
Event Highlights
- The event featured community organizations and residents involved in the project.
- Free craft activities were available, organized by the Northern School of Art.
- The Woodland Trust held a free tree giveaway.
- A newly created ‘Community Pledge Tree’ was unveiled, crafted by welding apprentices from Hartlepool College of Further Education.
Attendees were encouraged to pledge their commitment to enhancing Hartlepool’s green environment by signing their names on leaves from the tree. This personal touch allows participants to carry home a reminder of their commitment to the town’s greener future.
Tree Equity for Hartlepool Project
“Stories from Hartlepool’s Parks” is a part of the broader Tree Equity for Hartlepool project, which aims to address the lack of trees in the area. This initiative has received part-funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and The Linbury Trust, alongside support from local organizations, including Tees Community Forest and Treeconomics.
The project is set to utilize innovative tree mapping technology to identify locations in need of more greenery. Over the next two years, plans are in place to plant trees across at least ten hectares within these nature-deprived areas, with community planting days anticipated to start in early 2026.
Leadership Statements
Roddy Shaw, Senior Development Manager at Trees for Cities, expressed excitement about the project’s launch. He emphasized its role in nurturing a healthier urban forest for Hartlepool and ensuring equitable access to its benefits for all residents.
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, leader of the Hartlepool Borough Council, highlighted the initiative’s broader social implications. She stated the significance lies not only in planting trees but also in fostering community pride and ensuring the sustainable future of Hartlepool’s green spaces.
The collaborative efforts of Trees for Cities and local authorities underline Hartlepool’s commitment to rejuvenating its natural environment, contributing to the community’s overall well-being.
