ReForest London proposes to “reforest” key downtown London areas by planting trees along streets in London’s core. According to a City of London report, 59% of the larger trees downtown are in “fair” to “poor” health. The younger trees are rated in better health, but are more susceptible to moisture stress, urban pollution, and mechanical injury due to vandalism or accident. Proper bed preparation of the trees is critical for their chance of survival. Technical advances in this area, including structural soil and a tree guard/bike rack, are two strategies proposed by ReForest London to improve tree survival rates in downtown London.

Locations chosen based on Urban Forester Report
Locations for planting will be chosen based on recommendations in a report commissioned by the City of London and completed by Urban Forester Justin Morgenroth in July 2006 called “Tree Pit Survey and Recommendations: Downtown London”. This report identifies 222 locations where trees may be planted, and describes the health of existing downtown trees. The report further details effective methods of planting in urban areas to ensure the longevity of the trees.

The potential tree-planting locations are divided into four types – softscape, hardscape, tree pits and retrofits. There are also four types of pit preparation recommended by the City report, based on the location and available sidewalk space – standard, open bed, raised planter, and structural soil. These location and preparation types offer different advantages and challenges with regard to planning complexity, cost and chance of tree survival.

Tree guards that double as bicycle parking
People often use bicycles to park and lock their bikes. However, this practice damages tree bark and can lead to the tree’s death. London’s bike parking is scarce, especially downtown. As London grows, its traffic and congestion grows. Encouraging people to ride their bike to work, shop or play downtown eases this problem, while contributing to the physical health of Londoners and the air quality of our city. An innovative new tree guard that doubles as a bike rack allows people to park their bike to a structure that guards the tree. These guards would be installed where ever possible and practical in this project.

Phased Projects
Greening the Core will be completed in phased projects. The Richard and Beryl Ivey Fund, a fund within London Community Foundation, and the London Downtown Business Association have funded the first three projects to be completed in 2009.