Ten year tree strategy to make Blackpool greener

The blueprint would shape the management of tree stock with a 'right tree for the right place' approach and would update existing policies dating back to 2016.

An ambition to see up to 10,000 trees planted across the borough over a decade has already been put forward as part of the council's Green and Blue Strategy to manage open space, which was approved last year.

A council report says: "There is currently a national and worldwide emphasis on increasing tree numbers to aid in combating climate change.

"There are many benefits on a smaller scale within built up areas and open spaces, which have been known and documented for many decades."

Benefits include cleaner air, providing a cooling effect, supporting mental well-being and providing wildlife habitats.

Last summer 10 new trees were planted on Cookson Street at a total cost of £100,000 as part of the quality corridors scheme to upgrade key routes into the town centre.

The cost came in for criticism but the council said it was due to the complex nature of planting trees in an urban setting.

The tree strategy would also be used to document where trees are, ensure they are safe and maintained, and include tree preservation orders and woodland management schemes.

It would also have to be taken into account when planning new housing developments.

The report adds "creating an up-to-date strategy will provide clear direction on how to manage our current tree population" including the categorisation of trees in order "to make trees at the forefront of everyone’s mind".

Blackpool has one of the lowest amounts of tree cover in England which the Green and Blue Strategy hopes to address through initiatives such as creating pocket parks, particularly in the town's inner areas.

Yeadon Way, Progress Way, Westcliffe Drive and Talbot Road are among areas where more trees could be planted.