Climate adaptation and carbon sequestration
We want to make the most of our natural spaces across the city (our green infrastructure). We've developed a green infrastructure strategy. And we're using nature-based solutions that work with and enhance nature.
Our tree and woodland action plan aims to grow the number of trees in the city from 19% to 22% by 2050. To do it, we'll plant 64,000 trees. Growing the tree canopy cover will help the city to be more resilient to climate change. We have a data-led approach to tree and hedge planting. So we can plant the right number of the right species in the right places.
Key aims of engagement and policy change
We'll engage stakeholders – within the Council and across the city. We'll share best practice and foster collaboration. We'll encourage communities to engage with nearby green spaces. And we'll embed adaptation and green infrastructure (trees and planting) in our planning framework.
Key achievements from 2020 to 2025
- We planted 654 trees across the city in the 2024/25 season. Our focus was on areas that are hard to plant – needing new pavement tree pits – and areas with low tree cover. This number will grow to over 800 trees by spring 2026. It’s the largest tree planting project of its kind that our teams have undertaken. It was funded by the Forestry Commission’s Urban Tree Challenge.
- We designated Manchester's eleventh Local Nature Reserve. It's a 28 hectare section of Southern Cemetery in Chorlton Park. The site has many great specimen trees of significant age and ecological value.
- We secured £500,000 from the Forestry Commission in 2024. It'll boost our tree planting plan. And takes our funding total to £1.8million. (That includes our £1million Manchester tree action plan.)
- Broadhurst Clough is the tenth site to become an official local nature reserve. This status will help to protect natural habitats and wildlife. Find out more about Broadhurst Clough.
- We built a ‘sponge’ park in West Gorton. It provides open green space for residents and helps reduce surface water flooding. Find out more about the nature-based solutions used at Gorton.
- We commissioned a tree opportunity map, to find new places to plant trees in the city.
- We planted over 27,000 trees and 27 community orchards across the city with our partners. Find out more about our plan for trees.
- We commissioned a strategy for the River Valley.
- We developed Mayfield Park with our partners to create an ‘oasis in the city’. It opened in 2022. It's the first new park in the city centre for over 100 years! It was awarded a Green Flag award in 2024. Find out more about sustainability at Mayfield Park.
- Kenworthy Woods, a former tip, is now an official local nature reserve. This helps to protect its wildlife and their habitats. As well as increasing access to funding to maintain and conserve it.
- We were a highly commended finalist at the Chartered Institute for Ecology and Environmental Management Awards in 2023. It recognised our targeted work to combat climate change and support biodiversity.