The Horticultural Trades Association has responded to the Environment Secretary's announcement that local communities will receive £79 million to restore nature and adapt to climate change.

Jennifer Pheasey, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at the HTA, said: “Green infrastructure and the environmental horticulture sector does more than just benefit the country’s economy; it also helps create healthier, more biodiverse and climate-resilient communities. We welcome today’s announcement by the Environment Secretary for a £79 million nature restoration package.

“We especially welcome the £53 million tree fund. This focus on tree planting, particularly in our urban areas, is something we’ve consistently campaigned for. Just last week at our annual conference we launched our landmark Value of Green Spaces report. Green spaces can save the NHS £148m a year. The trees and green spaces we produce and then plant can cool our towns and cities during heatwaves, absorb rainwater during storms, improve air quality, support wildlife and help keep us physically and mentally healthy.

“We want to set strong roots for this plan to succeed. So, let’s get the detail and make sure the government works with us and gets UK growers involved in this plan. We don’t want to miss this as an opportunity to boost UK horticultural production.

“Our green businesses have the expertise to supply the half a million trees the Environment Secretary plans for towns, cities, and villages across the country. By working with sector experts, we can make sure we have the right trees for the right place, that are climate resilient and, most critically, cared for.  We look forward to working with the government to ensure these ambitions are delivered successfully and provide lasting benefits for communities across the country.”

To read the HTA’s Value of Green Spaces report, visit: hta.org.uk/value-of-plants-gardens-green-spaces