Oak tree set to become a ‘Landmark’ in Exeter

Published: 24 February 2021

A ‘Landmark’ tree has been planted in one of Exeter many green spaces, with the hope that it will one day grow into one of the city’s iconic trees.

The oak tree – donated by the Saving Devon’s Treescapes initiative – was planted at Library Fields in Pinhoe. The initiative is backed by Devon Wildlife Trust and aims to mitigate the loss of trees caused by Ash Dieback disease. 

The project aims to plant a ‘Landmark’ tree in every parish across Devon. ‘Landmark’ trees should be planted in places with high public profile, to increase community engagement with the project and Devon’s treescapes.

Helping get the tree into the ground were local resident Jessica Liebig and her family .

Jessica contacted the Council to find somewhere suitable for the oak to go – somewhere that could be enjoyed by local residents.

She said: “It will be wonderful to watch this tree grow in our community and to see more trees planted across the city.”

Cllr David Harvey, Lead Councillor for City Management, said: “We’re delighted to be backing this project and thankful to Saving Devon’s Treescapes for the tree, which I am sure will grow into a big strong oak for many generations to enjoy.

“In Exeter we understand the devastating effect that ash dieback is having on our tree population and are actively planting trees to replace the ones lost to this dreadful disease.”

Rosie Cotgreave, of Saving Devon’s Treescapes, said: “Ash Dieback is going to have a devastating impact on our treescapes but everyone can be part of the solution. It’s fantastic to see a community leading the way and providing hope in the face of these changes.”