North Northamptonshire Council launches Free Tree Giveaway

23 January 2026

Community groups, schools, residents, businesses and landowners across North Northamptonshire are being invited to apply for free young trees from North Northamptonshire Council, with saplings for the scheme being generously supplied by The Woodland Trust.

The Free Tree Giveaway aims to support local planting projects that enhance biodiversity, create greener community spaces and contribute to the area’s long‑term environmental resilience. Tree‑planting schemes like this also give volunteers a meaningful way to get directly involved in helping to improve and care for our local environment.

The initiative supports the Council’s wider Tree Planting Strategy and Local Nature Recovery Strategy, which set out a long‑term vision for protecting and enhancing North Northamptonshire’s natural environment. 

Eligible organisations can apply for packs of 20 native saplings, which may include species such as common oak, field maple, silver birch, rowan and crab apple. Groups may request up to 10 tree packs.

The scheme is open to:

• businesses
• charities
• community groups
• parish councils
• private landowners
• residents
• schools

As a council, we recognise just how important trees are to our environment, our wildlife and the character of our communities. We have a responsibility not only to manage the trees in our care, but also to support new planting that will benefit future generations.

This giveaway is a great opportunity for local groups and residents to get involved in caring for and improving North Northamptonshire’s natural environment and I look forward to seeing these saplings take root across the area.Cllr Ken Harrington, North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive Member for Assets, Waste and Environmental Services.

We know how much our residents value trees and green spaces, and this scheme gives communities a real opportunity to help shape a greener North Northamptonshire for the future.Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council

How to apply

Applications are open until 28 February 2026.
Apply on the council’s Free Tree Giveaway web page 

If applicants are not the landowner, written permission must be provided before any packs can be awarded.

Tree shelters, stakes and canes are not provided as part of the scheme. Successful applicants will be responsible for planting, maintenance and aftercare.

Tree packs will be available for collection in March 2026, with full details shared once applications close.

The Woodland Trust is the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity and is dedicated to protecting, restoring and creating native woodland across the country. Through national and local initiatives, the Trust provides high‑quality native saplings, resources and expertise to help communities, landowners and organisations plant and nurture trees. Their work supports UK biodiversity, improves habitats for wildlife and contributes to long‑term climate resilience.