Stonehouse Community Arboretum

The Stonehouse Community Arboretum was launched in 2021 with the publication of the Stonehouse Community Arboretum Management Plan, a Stonehouse Town Council document which sets out its approach to tree care. Rather than a conventional arboretum or botanical garden, the Stonehouse Community Arboretum is comprised of all trees in the town, on public and private land. Through a combination of responsible tree care and management, careful tree establishment and community engagement, the intention is to maximize the environmental, social and economic benefits of trees for the people of Stonehouse whilst also creating a sense of pride and community cohesion.

Existing trees are cared for and celebrated, such as through the 100th birthday party that was held for the Globe Willow, an iconic tree in the centre of town, that was attended by around 250 people. New trees are carefully selected to improve diversity and gather together a wide range of species with an emphasis on cultural, as well as environmental, value. Examples include saplings of the Hiroshima ginkgo, Brimmon Oak and Bishop’s Plane, with more specimen trees planned for the future.

Tree care is a critical part of the work of the arboretum. This is coordinated through the Town Council and the Friends of Stonehouse Community Arboretum Group with stakeholders such as the community group Stonehouse in Bloom and the local primary schools, as well as local authorities such as Gloucestershire County Council. Stonehouse was also the town used to launch the Arboricultural Association’s tree watering campaign.