Salisbury City Council launches Living Legacy Project with 800 trees for the City

Thursday, 6 August 2026 15:16

To mark the 800th anniversary of Salisbury receiving its Royal Charter, Salisbury City Council is launching a landmark Living Legacy Project.

Community groups, schools, businesses and residents are invited to help create a lasting gift for future generations by planting 800 trees across the city.

The initiative will be the first in a year-long programme of Council-organised events celebrating this historic milestone, and will see 800 saplings planted throughout Salisbury, creating a living legacy that will enhance the city’s natural environment for years to come.

The project aims to support local biodiversity, provide valuable habitats for wildlife and contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents by increasing access to nature.

Residents, organisations and community groups are invited to apply for a tree or native hedge to plant on private land, with the landowner's permission. Available options include rowan, bird cherry and oak saplings, as well as native hedging.

Those wishing to take part are encouraged to apply now by completing the form on Salisbury City Council’s Salisbury 800 webpage. Paper copies of the form are available to collect from Salisbury Information Centre. The closing date for applications is Thursday 1 October 2026.

Successful applicants will be able to collect their trees on Charter Sunday, 31 January 2027, from Salisbury Market Place. Full planting and aftercare guidance will be provided to ensure the trees have the best possible start.

Each tree planted as part of the Salisbury 800 Living Legacy Project will be recorded on a digital map, capturing its location alongside details of the project and the individuals and groups involved. The interactive map will be available online, allowing residents and visitors to follow the growth of this city-wide legacy.

The final tree of the 800 will be planted in one of Salisbury’s parks as a symbolic celebration of the project and the enduring connection between the city, its residents and its natural environment.

Cllr Jenny Bolwell, Mayor of Salisbury and Chair of the Environment Committee, said, “Every tree planted represents a commitment to our environment. This is a wonderful opportunity to commemorate Salisbury 800 and be part of something that will benefit the city for generations to come.”

For more information about the Salisbury 800 Living Legacy Project, please visit the Salisbury City Council website or email parks@salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk.

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