Wakefield Council’s free tree giveaway returns this winter
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
Residents are invited to claim free trees as part of local efforts to create a greener district and enhance local wildlife habitats.
“We’re delighted to offer free trees to our residents again, funded by the Woodland Trust. Planting new trees helps improve our air quality, support biodiversity, and create new habitats for wildlife.
“We’re inviting as many people as possible to come along and collect a free tree. You’ll be helping to create a greener district and supporting work towards our district’s net zero goals.”
Cllr George Ayre
Cabinet Member for Environment and Civic Services
Roger Parkinson, from the Woodland Trust, said: “Planting trees and hedgerows helps to sustain British wildlife and combat the damaging effects caused by climate change. So, whether it's for your garden, farm, community project, or school, take advantage of this amazing free offer.”
Trees will be available to collect every Sunday from Thornes Park Nursery from Sunday 23 November 2025, 10am – 12pm until stocks last. Trees can also be collected from Pontefract Castle and Council libraries from 24 November 2025. Please check the collection times with the local library before going.
The trees are all native species, which have been chosen to benefit wildlife. These include Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Hornbeam, Hazel, Birch, Rowan, Dogwood and Wild Cherry.
Three trees can be collected per person. No appointment is required to collect trees. Anyone who wants more than three trees should collect from Thornes Park Nursery.
Anyone collecting trees should bring a carrier bag to protect the roots. They must also have the landowner’s permission before planting the tree. Postcodes will also be collected to help map the impact.
Planting trees helps soak up rainwater, which can reduce flooding and support a healthy environment. Restoring hedgerows gives birds, insects, and small animals places to live and find food. When hedgerows are linked together, they form wildlife corridors that help animals move safely between green spaces. By planting trees and restoring hedgerows, the Council is helping to protect nature and create a better environment for everyone.
The launch of the tree giveaway coincides with National Tree Week (November 22 to November 30). Last year the Council gave away 4,000 trees to residents. 16,000 trees have been planted in the last four years, and the aim is to reach a total of 20,000 planted by residents by February 2026.
Wakefield Council is a partner in the White Rose Forest partnership. The White Rose Forest will form part of the Northern Forest of 50 million trees. In the 2025 tree planting season the Council planted 25,000 trees, helping to create a range of habitats for wildlife and get a step closer to the district reaching net zero.
For more information about the tree giveaway, visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/woodland