It is part of the Association’s ongoing plan to create biodiversity and a wildlife corridor across the open space it owns around its housing development in the area.

With donations through the Apache Corporation Tree Grant Programme, a charitable initiative, the Association has now planted 1,454 young trees in the Moray area since 2019. It is estimated that the trees will capture 290 tonnes of carbon over 20 years while delivering lasting environmental and community benefits for tenants.

The Apache Corporation Tree Grant programme focuses on grants that support large-scale conservation, protection of habitats for wildlife and native species, as well as the restoration and enhancement of public green spaces. Due to strong competition for the funding, Grampian was pleased to have been successful in securing this grant again.

The impact of Storm Arwen, which struck in late November 2021, was felt strongly across Scotland, particularly in the north‑east and south. The storm caused widespread devastation, destroying an estimated £16 million worth of trees.

Even before then, Chris Hunt, the Association’s sustainability development officer, had recognised and championed the benefits of re-wooding Grampian’s communities.

Chris said: “Tree planting is one of the simplest and most powerful ways we can respond to climate change while also improving the places our tenants live. Projects like this help restore habitats, support wildlife and create greener, healthier communities that will benefit people for generations to come.

“Grampian has long championed the environmental, social and climate benefits of planting trees across its neighbourhoods.”