Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Town Council is set to reconsider whether it should lead a major new environmental project that could bring up to £300,000 of Hinkley Point C funding into the area for 200 new trees, plus hedges and wildflower areas.
Councillors will receive an update next week on the proposed Tree Equity Project, which aims to boost green coverage across Burnham-On-Sea, Highbridge and Bridgwater following a tree‑mapping survey by the Woodland Trust.
The survey found that all three towns currently have low tree canopy levels, prompting a push to increase planting.
The project was originally expected to be led by Bridgwater Town Council, as reported here last year, but that authority has had to step back after already receiving Hinkley Point funding.
Now, Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Town Council is to consider taking on the lead role so the project can progress.
The funding bid — expected to fall between £150,000 and £300,000 — must be submitted before August 2026, with full project details still being finalised.
The council adds that the scheme would come at no direct cost to local taxpayers, with Hinkley Point C funding covering the officer’s salary, planting costs and project delivery. The council would only need to provide office space and some staff support.
Town councillors will consider the proposals at a meeting next week and if the funding application is successful, the Tree Equity Project would employ a full-time Tree and Woodland Community Officer for three years. The officer would work two days a week in Burnham and Highbridge and three days in Bridgwater, coordinating planting schemes, working with landowners and involving local residents in community planting.
A minimum of 200 new trees are expected to be planted in Burnham and Highbridge via the project, alongside hedgerows and wildflower areas.
