A tree canopy survey commissioned by Babergh has found the area has lower tree coverage than the national average, and will be used to influence future planting.

The Babergh tree canopy report, conducted by Treeconomics, found that an average of just over 8% across Babergh wards and 10% across neighbouring council Mid Suffolk, is covered by leaves, branches and stems from trees.

The average coverage in England is 16% and, according to Treeconomics, coverage across Europe is higher.

The tree canopy report states that 15% tree coverage should be a short-term target for both Babergh, while 20% should be strived for in the long term.

Wolves Wood

Findings will be used to influence future planting, and the council will decide whether to make the information available publicly as an interactive map during a cabinet meeting next Monday.

Cllr Jane Gould, cabinet member for climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable transport at Babergh, said: "The findings of this survey, which will enable us to create a tree planting strategy for the coming years, marks another important step towards achieving our climate change and biodiversity ambitions.

"It will play a vital role in enabling us to protect and strengthen our district's amazing wildlife and plant life, ensuring we target areas which will benefit most first.

"Because we've surveyed more than just our council-owned trees, and if approved for publication, it will also benefit our parishes, community groups as well as housing developers. They will be able to use the data to improve green infrastructure within new developments, and target resources, ensuring Babergh remains a place people are proud to live and work for years to come."

Babergh councillor Jane Gould

Treeconomics' survey recognises that rural land often has lower tree coverage than urban land, as trees have been cut down to make way for farming.

Kenton Rogers, director at Treeconomics, said: "The internationally-recognised target for tree coverage is 30%, so there's a lot more still to be done in England.

"This level isn't possible across the board, but it's an aspiration. Aiming for this will help build resilience into our ecosystem."

Babergh has also been working with Treeconomics to build a tree planting strategy, which will map out the best locations for tree planting.

The council hopes the report will enable officers to apply for more funding streams for tree planting.