Kings Quarter regeneration continues with tree replacement

Work is continuing on the £85m regeneration of Kings Quarter in Gloucester as specialists begin replacing a number of trees in the area.

Several trees in Kings Square will be removed this month as part of the continuing regeneration of Kings Quarter.

Of the 11 trees in the square, 8 of the smaller trees will be removed preserving the 3 very large specimen trees. 9 new trees will be planted in the square as part of the works being undertaken this summer.

The City Council has arranged for the removed trees to be reused to minimize the impact of their loss. The smaller branches will be chipped and used on the new woodland at Horsbere as mulch for young trees .The larger trunks will be utilised in a project to make small dams to slow flood water and create habitat.

In October 2019, Gloucester City Council released computer generated images of how King’s Square could look and how the space could be used during the day and night once planning permission is granted to revitalise it.

Displaying a bustling square, they illustrate the council’s vision for the transformation of this part of the city centre into a destination and flexible event space with cultural activities, live performances and pop-up markets.

The area would have a totally new lease of life, with sweeping raised seating areas, fountains inspired by the Severn Bore and atmospheric coloured lighting after dark – together with wild-planted green areas with the addition of the new trees.

Cllr Paul James, cabinet member for regeneration at Gloucester City Council said: “This is the next important and necessary step in continuing the regeneration process at Kings Square.

“The preparatory work will enable the square to be fully transformed in to a space for relaxing and socialising, and for hosting markets, events and community activities.

“We are also able to reuse and recycle the timber and wood chippings from these trees, as a more eco-friendly option than disposing of them.”