Principles met

  • We will develop systems that enable citizens to be equal partners in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.
  • We will embrace innovation in how we work with local communities to drive positive change.
  • We will support the development of a framework and criteria for social value, giving substance to the concept and supporting Councils with the tools to ensure better local social and economic outcomes.
  • In exploring new ways of meeting the priority needs of our communities we will encourage models, such as co-operatives and mutuals, which give greater influence and voice to staff and users. in designing and commissioning public services and in determining the use of public resources.

Having declared a climate emergency in 2019, the opportunity to pioneer an exciting joint project, a first in the UK, was one that we, as a forward-looking council and energetic community, absolutely could not turn down.

A Tiny Forest is a densely planted, fast-growing native woodland usually sited in built-up areas. It’s around the size of a tennis court and 3000 of them exist worldwide. The chance to have the very first one in the UK came from Earthwatch, an international charity who offer nature-based solutions to boost biodiversity.

Our Tiny Forest directly supports key elements of the Town Council’s climate and biodiversity strategies, and its secondary aim to maintain the town as a green and pleasant place to live.