Adur and Worthing adopt new urban tree planting policy

Adur and Worthing Councils have introduced a permanent tree planting policy aimed at increasing tree coverage and enhancing urban environments. The policy forms part of the area’s wider Vision for Nature and focuses on expanding planting efforts while protecting the existing tree stock across both districts.

The approach will prioritise coordinated street tree planting in areas that stand to benefit most from added shade, cooling and natural habitats. It builds on the Trees for Streets scheme in Worthing, which has enabled the planting of more than 150 community-sponsored trees in three years, including donations that supported new planting along Sompting Road and Sompting Avenue. With the scheme concluding in 2026, the councils plan to bring the model in-house to align with broader environmental work. Alongside new planting, the councils will continue managing their 15,000 trees, including responding to ash dieback by replacing lost woodland trees with young whips.

The programme supports a wider strategy to restore and connect natural spaces across Adur and Worthing, from parks and recreation grounds to chalk grassland and waterways. Residents, community groups and businesses will continue to be encouraged to take part through sponsorship, volunteer planting days and ongoing care for young trees as the new policy is implemented.