Devizes takes a leaf out of the environment book

One of Devizes best loved heritage sites will benefit in 2020 from the planting of a small copse of 30 trees after a successful application by DOCA (Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts) in collaboration with Devizes Town Council to The Woodland Trust Free Trees for Communities Scheme.

The Leipzig Plantation, owned by the Town Council and sited on the western edge of the Millennium White Horse is well known by locals as an area for scenic woodland walks, and is also used by youth and community groups for a variety of activities and exercises.

The application was made by DOCA in its continued commitment to address the climate emergency. “As an organisation we are aware of our carbon footprint” says DOCA Artistic Director Loz Samuels. “Artists and performers from all over the UK and Europe come to Devizes to perform at our events. Most, out of necessity are not able to use public transport to get here. Add to that our general mileage and use of vehicles and portable power and the figures clock up. This scheme will significantly offset our environmental impact. We are very pleased to have been chosen and to be making a difference. By working with the Town Council on this initiative it’s sending a very positive message to the community that we can all make some changes or counter our impact in some way”.

The saplings – ten each of Silver Birch, Rowan and Wild Cherry will be delivered and planted in March 2020 with community support and a little merry making and celebration to be coordinated by the DOCA team. Devizes Town Council Clerk, Simon Fisher said, “Trees are the ultimate multi-taskers, helping to combat the two environmental emergencies facing our planet: climate change and biodiversity loss. We are delighted to be part of this scheme and to improve and invest in our outdoor spaces”.

DOCA signed up to the Climate Emergency in June and are addressing their impact in numerous ways including replacing single use plastic water bottles with the Refill Scheme in partnership with local businesses and encouraging the return of lights via the buy back scheme for the Winter Lantern Parade.

More information about the planting and celebration will be available closer to the time. If you would like to be involved please email [email protected]