Knowsley newsletter, autumn 2014

It's been a busy 2014 for The Mersey Forest team, and as autumn approaches, we're looking forward to an action-packed tree planting season and New Year.

In January we launched our guiding strategic document, The Mersey Forest Plan. The development of the Plan, which is recognised as a legal consideration by the government, brought together people from across our broad and diverse partnership to form a shared vision of greener, well-wooded Merseyside and North Cheshire. Its launch coincided with the Forest passing its nine-millionth tree mark - a key achievement for The Mersey Forest Partnership.

It's also been great to see the work of the partnership recognised at an international and national level this year with awards and commendations for the Forest Plan, our work in woodland management and community engagement, and with Mersey Forest team member Susannah Gill awarded European Young Forester of the Year.

We also recognise that resources for projects and programmes remains tight or is getting tighter. The Partnership continues to look for ways to broaden our funding base and continue the work to get "more from trees".

The Mersey Forest continues to provide great value for money, especially in the current economic climate. Local authorities gained £6 worth of green projects for every £1 they invested in The Mersey Forest in 2013/14.

The local authorities' combined annual contribution of £167,481 led to the delivery of £1.7 million of projects right here on our doorsteps thanks to the way The Mersey Forest Team levers in extra funds.

757 people engaged in The Mersey Forest's activities in Knowsley

73ha of woodland managed to ensure its long-term health

92 street trees planted to enhance Knowsley's neighbourhoods

Knowsley's community woodlands are receiving a green boost as a result of partnership working between the council, the community and The Mersey Forest.

Hundreds of street trees are set to be planted in Knowsley this winter to improve walking and cycling routes in the borough.

Make sure you have your say about the future of historic Bowring Park in Knowsley by participating in an online survey.

A workshop has discussed the benefits that trees can bring with regards to water management in urban areas.

The Mersey Forest Plan has been hailed as the most innovative planning achievement in the North West of 2014 by the Royal Town Planning Institute.

The Mersey Forest is now taking applications from community groups for tree planting schemes during the 2014-15 season as part of Big Tree Plant.