The Queen’s Green Canopy
As part of a nationwide initiative to mark the former Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, Dunstable joined communities across the UK in planting trees for The Queen’s Green Canopy. The local effort was led by Dunstable Town Mayor, Councillor Gloria Martin, and brought together community groups and local representatives to plant twenty trees at Mentmore Park.
The trees chosen, such as Scots Pine and Alder were selected for their ability to thrive in changing climate conditions. Alder trees are especially valuable, as they naturally enrich the soil by absorbing nitrogen from the air.
To commemorate the occasion, a specially crafted Queen’s Green Canopy plaque, made by members of The Royal British Legion, has been installed at the park’s adjacent entrance. A second stone plaque marks the tree planted by the 2022 Town Mayor.
This project was made possible through funding from Central Bedfordshire Council’s Tree Planting Grant Scheme.
Tiny Forest
The Tiny Forest a is a small but powerful woodland area. It’s filled with a mix of native trees like oak, birch, and hazel. The forest helps attract wildlife, improve air quality, and fight climate change. It’s also a great space for local schools and residents to learn about nature and take part in fun outdoor activities. The Tiny Forest has gained a nature conservation award from Anglia in Bloom.
The forest was planted in December 2022 with help from local volunteers, officers and councillors from Dunstable Town Council and Central Bedfordshire Council, and the charity Earthwatch.
Native Hedgerow
The native hedgerow was planted to improve soil health, absorb excess rainwater, and prevent soil erosion. It also creates a home for wildlife and attracts pollinators, which helps nature thrive. By making the area more eco-friendly, the hedgerow supports a healthier environment for both people and animals, now and in the future. The Wildlife Trust Youth Rangers help to look after the hedgerow by getting involved in tasks like pruning, planting, and keeping an eye on how the plants are growing.
Climate-Resilient Tree Planting
30 climate-resilient trees have been planted in a way that forms a walk-through treescape, they create a natural pathway that enhances the visitor experience. These trees were carefully selected for their ability to thrive in changing climate conditions. These trees not only provide shade and beauty, but also support wildlife, improve air quality, and help absorb carbon—making the park more resilient to the effects of climate change.
Thank you for making this project possible
Thank you to Central Bedfordshire Council’s tree grant fund, Earthwatch Europe, and The Woodland Trust for making these initiatives possible. The success of this project underscores Dunstable Town Council’s proactive approach to biodiversity and community involvement. The benefits realised from this initiative contribute not only to the visual enhancement of Mentmore Recreation Ground but also to the overall well-being of the community and local wildlife.
There is a small car park available at Mentmore Recreation Ground. If you live nearby, we encourage you to walk if possible.
