22 CONTEXT 180 : JUNE 2024 increase overall tree cover in towns and cities. When planning for and planting new trees, the adage of ‘right tree, right place’ is important. Careful consideration must be given to planting locations for street trees within urban areas where there may be physical constraints such as underground services. Consideration should also be given to the historic environment. Trees, and particular types of tree, are integral to the character of historic parks and other designed green spaces. There may be considerations such as views and historic character when considering the setting of historic buildings and the character of conservation areas. In some locations there may be archaeological sensitivities to consider. It is essential to consider existing site conditions and the potential impact of climate change on the resilience of tree species, alongside the interrelated issue of pest and disease threats to tree health. Some tree species may become less tolerant to their situation and more vulnerable to pests and diseases as peak temperatures increase, and through drought and increased rainfall, or a combination of these factors. Increasing species diversity can help to ensure that our urban forests are resilient for the future. It is important, however, not to rely on diversity alone to provide resilience, but to understand species choice in terms of the context in which they will be planted. Historic botanic gardens and arboreta are a valuable resource for studying how tree species and cultivars are faring in different areas and in a changing climate. Evidence-based tools and publications can assist with tree species choice. The Trees in Design Action Group (TDAG) publication Tree Species Selection for Green Infrastructure: a guide for specifiers is a valuable resource. TDAG provides information on a wide range of topics related to urban trees, including recordings of past seminars, on its website. The Green Infrastructure Framework for England also provides principles and standards for trees in green infrastructure. How trees are planted and managed when becoming established is key to ensuring their long-term health and ability to deliver benefits. While initial investment is required to make sure that urban trees are planted in a way that supports healthy growth and development, the benefits provided over the lifetime of a tree far outweigh the initial investment. Trees also need continual care and maintenance to make sure that they are in optimal health to deliver the benefits they have to offer. It is important for heritage, landscape, arboriculture and ecological specialists to work together. An integrated approach to managing existing trees and new tree planting is needed, both in the context of local strategies and with relation to individual sites. Grade II* Nottingham Arboretum, the city’s first designated public park, opened in 1852. (Photo: Erika Diaz Petersen) Erika Diaz Petersen is principal national landscape adviser at Historic England.
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