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Guidance

Urban Tree Challenge Fund (currently closed)

A closed grant for funding to support the planting and establishment of standard trees in urban and peri-urban areas in England.

This guidance was withdrawn on

This grant has now closed. If you have an existing UTCF agreement read the UTCF manual for existing grant holders.

Applies to England

The Urban Tree Challenge Fund (UTCF) is closed.

Find out about other Forestry Commission grants

How to claim 

If you have claims remaining, submit an establishment claim declaration form.

Biosecure Procurement

The Biosecure Procurement Requirement Pilot has been extended to include UTCF to address risks to our biosecurity.

From 1 July 2023, UTCF agreement holders must commit to sourcing their trees from suppliers who are either certified under the Plant Healthy Certification Scheme (or have applied to become certified) or who have passed a Ready to Plant assessment provided by Fera Science Ltd. Further information is available in the grant manual, failure to adhere to the procurement requirement may result in a reduction in the payment of your claim.

This requirement helps to combat the threats posed by pests and diseases, as well as strengthening our biosecurity and serving our long-term vision for our trees and woodlands. Find information and support on how to comply in our guide: Biosecure Procurement Requirement Pilot for Plants and Trees.

If your planting plans included oak trees with a stem girth of at least 8cm, at 1.2m above the root collar, your supplier will need to comply with the Oak Processionary Moth management policy changes guide.

Terms and conditions

Read the UTCF grant manual for existing grant holders for grant terms and conditions.

Contact us

Get help by emailing UTCF@forestrycommission.gov.uk or phone the Operational Delivery team on 0300 067 4177.

Make an appeal

Find out how to make a complaint or appeal against a grant decision.

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