Sefton councillors Liz Dowd and Ian Moncur were at Lunt Meadows nature reserve last week for the planting of saplings from the famous Sycamore Gap tree.

Rooted in Partnership

After the famous tree, which had stood in Northumberland for more than 120 years, illegally cut down in 2023, saplings from it were given to the National Trust’s nationwide ‘Rooted in Partnership’ campaign. ‘Rooted in Partnership’ celebrates the power of partnership and collaboration with local communities to create greener healthier places. 

Cllrs Dowd and Moncur joined representatives of the National Trust, Mersey Forest, Lancashire Wildlife Trust and Sefton and Lunt Parish Council for the planting of the trees.

Legacy

Cllr Dowd said: “I am pleased that despite the terrible act of vandalism that shocked the country, there will be legacy of that great tree at Lunt Meadow which will be visited for generations to come.”

Cllr Moncur said: “New woodlands and diverse habitats such as wetlands and rich grassland are being developed here at Lunt Meadows so I was delighted to take part in the planting of these trees which will advance that goal a little further.”

Generations to come

Justin Matthews, Lead Ranger National Trust Liverpool City Group, said: “Coming together to plant the sycamore gap saplings shows the power of partnership working to shape landscapes like Lunt for generations to come"

Paul Nolan, Director of The Mersey Forest, said:
"It was very special to see these saplings planted at Lunt Meadows, bringing together partners, councillors and the local community.

“Lunt Meadows has been shaped through long-term partnership, with new woodlands, wetlands and habitats created for people and wildlife. After the loss of such a well-known and much-loved tree, it is especially meaningful to see its legacy continue here, and we are grateful to the National Trust for gifting these young trees, and to Sefton Council for their continued support in shaping this site.

"Planting these saplings is a simple but hopeful act, and a reminder of the strength of partnership."

Green haven

Sefton Council finalised the sale of the 78 hectares of disused farmland that make up the Lunt meadows reserve to the National Trust in 2024. The vision for the area is that new areas of forest would join existing pockets of woodland and wetlands creating a green haven for local people, wildlife, birds and insects to enjoy.

You can find out more about the Lunt Meadows nature reserve here.