New ‘Tiny Forest’ for Eastleigh
A new ‘Tiny Forest’ was planted on Monday in Eastleigh’s Fleming Park by local children and members of the community.
A Tiny Forest is a dense, fast-growing, native woodland about the size of a tennis court. Children from Nightingale Primary School and the Little Wisp Preschool helped to plant the Tiny Forest, which has been created in a joint initiative between Eastleigh Borough Council and Earthwatch Europe - the environmental charity pioneering the Tiny Forest movement in the UK. Over 40 local residents also volunteered their time to get involved in the planting.
A tiny forest consists of a dense mix of 600 native trees and shrubs that can attract over 500 plant and animal species in its first three years.
The forest includes a ‘classroom area’ that the local community can use to learn, explore and play.
The Mayor of Eastleigh, Cllr Cynthia Garton, who attended the planting day said: “This Tiny Forest is a fantastic addition to Fleming Park and Eastleigh. It will provide a rich habitat for wildlife and a valuable place that people can come to reconnect with nature. It’s brilliant to see the local community get together to plant the Tiny Forest and I’m really excited to see it grow and flourish over the coming months and years.”
Louise Hartley, Tiny Forest Programme Manager at Earthwatch Europe, said: “Tiny Forest provides rich opportunities for connecting young and old alike with the environment and sustainability. It’s vital that we give people the knowledge and skills to protect our natural world and inspire them to take positive action. We are delighted to be working with Eastleigh Borough Council to bring these inspiring spaces to Fleming Park.”