Perry Common is Home to City Forest

August 24, 2021
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Birmingham’s first Tiny Forest was planted earlier this year in Perry Common. It was funded by the OVO Foundation, in collaboration with Birmingham City Council. The design features an outdoor classroom area for use by both schools and local residents.

What is a Tiny Forest? This small woodland has a unique planting design following principles first developed in Japan by Professor Akira Miyawaki.

The forest is made up of 600 UK native saplings, made up of over 15 species that have been selected for this site, densely planted in this 200m2 plot. These aim to tackle environmental issues such as flooding, heat stress and loss of biodiversity are increasingly affecting urban areas.

The Tiny Forest is open and accessible to visit anytime, to enjoy alone or for group activities. You can get involved by becoming a Tiny Forest Tree Keeper.

Tree Keepers are local volunteers who act as ambassadors for the forest and help maintain the forest during the first couple of years when the trees are most vulnerable. You can also join in by taking part in Tiny Forest research, including measuring tree height, counting pollinators and testing the soil. To find out more and get involved head to the Tiny Forest website.