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First trees will line Corby Walk
A nine-metre high mature oak tree has been manoeuvred into place to mark work on the Corby Walk project.
The first of 12 pin oak trees was planted using a digger yesterday outside Corby East Midlands International Swimming Pool.
They will form an attractive part of the Corby Walk which will link the town centre with the award-winning railway station.
It is part of the Parkland Gateway masterplan and will complement plans for George Street which will create a more pedestrian-friendly public space.
Corby Council lead member for regeneration Cllr Jimmy Noble said: "The trees are suited to growing in the urban environment and they will double in height over the coming years.
"This will mirror the impressive size of our two fantastic buildings located in George Street.
"More importantly, the trees are just the first step towards making sure that nature is at the heart of Corby's future regeneration efforts.
"They will send out a message that the environment is a top priority for the council."
Chairman of the pool's board Peter McEwan said: "The trees will open the woods up and it will be absolutely fantastic for the people of Corby.
"The walk will mean you can go from one end of the town centre to another in 15 minutes."
Gretton resident Alistair Potts, 37, who was walking near the pool yesterday, said: "The trees will brighten the area up.
"They have already spent millions of pounds on the swimming pool so planting a few trees won't hurt."
Corby mayor Mary Butcher put the first bit of soil into the pit as the tree was lowered into it.
Representatives from the council and North Northants Development Company donned their hard hats and fluorescent jackets to watch the first oak tree being planted.
As part of the Parkland Gateway, traffic and taxi ranks will be moved and work will include landscaping, new lighting and seating and more crossing points.
The pin oaks will line the first section of the Corby Walk from the pool to George Street and will provide a shaded, distinctive walkway.
The pin oak variety has been chosen for its globe shaped canopy, long straight trunk and beautiful autumn colour.
The trees are planted in engineered tree pits, 5m long by 2.5m wide, filled with specially prepared soil to give the trees the best chance of flourishing.
There are also underground guy ropes to support the trees against winds while their roots grow.
A consultation was recently held to get opinions from residents on designs for the public realm in George Street which will accompany the ongoing building work at the Corby Cube.
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Weather for Kettering
Monday 13 February 2012
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Temperature: 2 C to 7 C
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