Choice Housing supports biodiversity boost in County Down.

Choice Housing planted 300 native trees at its Killaire Wood Lane scheme with support from Ards and North Down Borough Council and Idverde; its Biodiversity Action Plan also sets a target to plant at least 500 trees over the next three years.

Choice Housing has planted 300 native trees at its Killaire Wood Lane scheme in Bangor. The planting was carried out with support from Ards and North Down Borough Council and by Idverde. An area at the site has been left for wildflowers, which are due to be planted in spring. Choice has also published a Biodiversity Action Plan and a three-year Sustainability and Energy Strategy to guide further work. Key details: - 300 native tree whips were planted at Killaire Wood Lane with trees supplied by Ards and North Down Borough Council. - The council’s STAND4TREES initiative aims to plant one tree for every resident (about 160,000 by 2032) and has delivered more than 60,000 trees so far, as reported. - An area has been reserved for wildflowers to be planted in spring to further enhance habitat and planting diversity. - Reported environmental benefits include carbon capture and storage, improved air quality, and new habitats for birds, insects, and small mammals. - Choice’s Biodiversity Action Plan (2025–2028) and its Sustainability and Energy Strategy include a target to plant at least 500 trees over the next three years and investment in a dedicated biodiversity resource. Summary: The tree-planting at Killaire is part of a broader partnership between Choice Housing, the council, and contractors to enhance local green space and biodiversity. Wildflower planting is planned for spring, and Choice’s published plans set out ongoing tree-planting and habitat work over the coming years.