More trees means more shade for the Tweed

22 May 2023

Man walking dog under tree and shade along footpath with

During May, Council is planting more than 70 native trees in streets around Tweed Heads South, especially along pedestrian routes to nearby schools. This means more shade for your walks and a beautiful outlook too!

This tree planting project is part of the Cool Towns Urban Forest Program which aims to provide increased shade and cooling in settings where concrete, bitumen and built structures absorb and reflect heat. Council’s goal is to increase total canopy coverage in urban areas to 35% by 2030 and then to 40% by 2040.

Trees in urban areas have been shown to:

  • reduce the demand for heating and cooling by as much as 15%
  • increase property values between 5 to 30%
  • promote walking, cycling and outdoor activities
  • contribute to cooling and reduce heat-related illnesses.

Communities and residents play an important role in caring for and protecting trees for future generations of Tweed residents.

Trees are being planted in Tweed Heads South alongside new footpath projects. There are plans to expand the tree planting across the Tweed to places in high traffic zones and housing estates, with priority areas for winter planting including Murwillumbah, Pottsville, Tweed Heads South and Banora Point, subject to site assessments, consultation and funding.

Love trees? You can request a tree to be planted in the public land outside your property, or have your say about other pedestrian zones and recreation areas where you would like to see more trees.

This project is one way Council is working to protect the Tweed’s internationally significant environment for a sustainable future.

The Tweed Heads South planting in May was funded through the Australian and NSW governments' School Infrastructure Program.

Find out more about Council’s Cool Towns Urban Forest Program.

Image: Council’s Cool Towns Urban Forest Program aims to provide increased shade and cooling in settings where concrete, bitumen and built structures absorb and reflect heat.

 

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