In 2023 we collaborated with Northwood House in Cowes to design a climate change adaption plan for the park. Many trees had disappeared over the past decade due to old age, disease and storms, and it was time for a planting strategy that would future proof the park in light of potential temperatures in the future.

As evidence of climate change has started to become more prevalent over the past year it has become increasingly clear that adaption plans will now need to be implemented to prepare our local landscape, flora, and fauna for the inevitable warming that is now predicted over the coming decades.

This project has created an area of the park with tree species that will grow happily in our existing growing seasons, but, importantly, will continue to thrive in the warmer temperatures that the majority of scientists have now agreed is unequivocal.

The eligibility and choice of tree species have been made with three parameters in mind.

Sustainability

With the likelihood of increasing droughts and much warmer summers, species have been chosen that currently grow well in our current climate, but will also thrive in warming temperatures.

Wildlife

Species have been chosen that will provide a food source for our native birds, and our most iconic mammal, the red squirrel.

Community

Attention has been given to selecting species that will encourage community engagement and foraging; thus promoting sustainability, well being and public interaction.