The BID has secured £50,000 from Westminster City Council’s Greening Westminster Fund to plant new street trees and create a free walking trail through Marylebone.
The project, Marylebone’s Marvellous Green Canopy, responds to calls from local businesses and the community for more greenery and greater support for biodiversity across the Harley Street district.
A survey carried out as part of the Harley Street Public Realm Masterplan has identified a shortlist of streets suitable for planting. Tree species will be selected in consultation with Westminster City Council’s tree team to suit the local environment.
The work builds on the W1W Planting Project, a community-led initiative delivered in partnership with Westminster Tree Trust and Westminster City Council. Since its launch in 2009, the initiative has seen more than 1,000 trees planted across the neighbourhood.
Alongside the new planting, the BID will develop a free, self-guided walking trail celebrating Marylebone’s street trees and the contribution they make to the area’s character.
Residents, workers and visitors will be encouraged to explore the neighbourhood, discover its trees and learn about the benefits of shade during hot weather. The trail will also share practical advice on staying cool and well during the warmer months.
Nicki Palmer, BID Director at Harley Street Business Improvement District, said:
“Our businesses and local community have told us they want to see more greenery across the Harley Street district. This funding will help us put that feedback into action and build on the work of the W1W Planting Project.
“Trees make a real difference to how our streets look and feel. The walking trail will give people another reason to explore Marylebone, enjoy its green spaces and discover how its trees help make the neighbourhood a more comfortable place to spend time, particularly during hot weather.”
As a busy medical district within a densely built historic neighbourhood, Harley Street will benefit from additional shade and greenery. The project aims to support biodiversity and create more restful surroundings for everyone who lives, works, receives care or visits in the area.
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