Plans to plant 15,000 trees in Sandwell will be put to the council’s cabinet on Wednesday 30 October.
If approved, a tree will be planted for the 4,900 children starting school in reception in September 2019 With a further 10,100 trees to be planted in the following two years.
It is hoped planting will start from 23 November 2019 and to coincide with National Tree Week.
Councillor Maria Crompton, cabinet member for safer communities, said: “I am very passionate about this planting programme which will go towards our commitment to improving air quality in Sandwell.
“The tree planting will kick-start a new legacy for our youngest generation – as a child grows, so does their woodland.
“I hope this will help children be more environmentally aware and the personal connection to the woodland will make our young people proud of where they live.”
The first year of the planting programme will take place in two Sandwell locations – Barnford Park in Oldbury and Jubilee Park in Tipton.
The council will work with The Woodland Trust who will part-fund the cost of the trees for the first year and ensure the two woodlands are given protected status.
It is expected the project will cost £90,000 across the three years with a view to extend the project to 2030.
If approved on 30 October, all primary school across Sandwell will have the opportunity to get involved with planting the new woodland areas.
