Free tree scheme launches for 2026 after hitting major milestone

The scheme has now provided enough trees and hedge plants to equate to at least one tree for every resident in the borough.

Since launching in 2022, the scheme has distributed more than 118,000 trees and hedge plants to residents, schools and community groups, helping to create greener neighbourhoods, enhance wildlife habitats, and support action on climate change.

Building on the success of the initiative, the Borough Council is once again inviting residents, businesses and community groups to apply for free trees. The scheme is delivered in partnership with J&F Powner Ltd, the council’s garden waste disposal contractor based in Aston Flamville, and The National Forest, with the aim of continuing to make the borough a greener place to live, work and visit while helping tackle climate change.

From 1 October 2026, the council will be offering 16,000 trees for planting in the borough of Hinckley and Bosworth. Tree saplings and hedges will be available to order, free of charge.

There are four species to choose from: holly, juniper, birch and cherry. There are also 500 five-meter hedging packs available.

Saplings and hedging can be ordered online

Cllr Martin Cartwright, Executive Member for Climate Change, said: “Reaching the milestone of providing enough trees and hedging plants to match the borough’s population is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the enthusiasm of residents, schools and community groups to help create a greener future.

“Over the last four years, thousands of people have played their part by planting trees in gardens, schools and community spaces. The lasting benefits of those trees will be felt for generations, from absorbing carbon and improving air quality to creating valuable habitats for wildlife and boosting biodiversity.

“We are delighted to once again offer free trees through this successful scheme. Every tree planted helps create a greener, healthier and more sustainable Hinckley and Bosworth.  Our thanks to the staff and pupils of Newlands Community Primary School in Earl Shilton for helping us to launch this year's scheme."

Cllr Lynda Hodgkins, Executive Member for Street Scene Services, added: “We are extremely grateful to J&F Powner Ltd and The National Forest for their continued support of this popular scheme. Together, we are helping to make Hinckley and Bosworth a greener, healthier, and more attractive place to live.

“Whether planting a single tree in a garden or creating a larger community project, everyone can play a part. We encourage residents, businesses and community groups to take advantage of this opportunity and apply for a free tree.”

Francine Powner from J&F Powner Ltd said: “As the company responsible for composting the borough’s garden waste, we are delighted to support a scheme that gives back to local communities and the environment.

“The milestone of providing enough trees and hedging plants for every resident in the borough is a fantastic achievement, and we are pleased to play our part in helping create a greener Hinckley and Bosworth for future generations.”

Gill Forrester, Community and Wellbeing Manager at The National Forest, said: “Having supported this scheme since day one, it is wonderful to see it reach such a significant milestone. The thousands of trees planted across Hinckley and Bosworth will provide lasting benefits for wildlife, communities and the environment for years to come.

“Every tree planted helps strengthen the natural environment and create a greener, healthier future, and we are delighted to continue supporting this successful partnership.”

Collection is planned for Saturday 28 November, which falls during National Tree week.  Confirmation of your collection point will be sent out before the collection date.

The collection points will be:

• Argents Mead, Hinckley, 9am to 12 noon
• Barlestone Community Centre, 1pm to 3pm

The trees are small cell-grown plants, sourced from the UK