Andover Trees United has officially begun the final year of schools tree planting at Bury Hill Meadows, marking the culmination of a multi-year community project transforming former farmland into a thriving young woodland.
22 local primary schools, 2 secondary schools, Andover College and 11 businesses join the community effort to grow a woodland for the future
The planting season began on Monday 10 November and will continue for three weeks, running Monday to Friday each week. Over the course of the programme, every primary school in Andover, along with two secondary schools and Andover College, will take part in planting sessions supported by volunteers and staff from 11 local businesses.
Each morning and afternoon, a new year group arrives equipped with gloves and enthusiasm, ready to plant two trees each after a short demonstration from the Andover Trees United team. A well-earned drink and biscuit rounds off the session before the next group arrives – a simple but powerful tradition that has inspired thousands of local children to take part over the years.
This initiative follows the success of Harmony Woods, the charity’s first 12-acre community woodland planted between 2012 and 2022 by schoolchildren and volunteers. With Harmony Woods now complete, Bury Hill Meadows became the next chapter in the charity’s mission to restore local habitats and connect people with nature.
Abbey Sadler, Community Engagement Officer for Andover Trees United, said:
“This planting is about so much more than trees. It’s about young people taking part in something lasting, something rooted in place. Every child who plants here knows that they have shaped the landscape and can return in years to say: ‘I helped grow this.’”
The project has become a shining example of how local action can drive nature recovery, improve biodiversity, and strengthen community bonds.
Community Tree Planting Day – Saturday 22 November
Andover Trees United is inviting local residents, families, and friends to take part in a special Community Tree Planting Day at Bury Hill Meadows on Saturday 22 November. This event will mark the final stage of the Bury Hill planting project, giving everyone the chance to plant native trees, learn about conservation, and be part of a lasting legacy for future generations.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to lend a hand, everyone is welcome to join this community effort to make Andover greener and wilder.
For more information, or to register your interest in volunteering during the planting weeks or the community day, contact Abbey Sadler, Community Engagement Officer, at abbey.sadler@andovertrees.org.uk, or visit www.andovertrees.org.uk.