As part of Foyle Port’s 170th anniversary, a goal was set to plant 170 trees, one for each year of the Port’s successful history. The initiative symbolises the Port’s enduring legacy and its ongoing commitment to sustainability.

Over the past year, trees have taken root across the Harbour Estate, with birch, oak, apple and pear trees also gifted to employees to plant at home. But the Port’s ambition didn’t stop there: earlier this month, the Green Team took to the local area to spread a little green across the community by delivering trees to local primary schools.

The Head of Foyle Port’s Green Team, David O’Neill, visited several schools across the region to plant cherry blossom and mountain ash trees with the help of budding eco-pupils. To mark the planting of the new tree, each school was presented with a ‘Tree Guardian Award’, recognising their commitment to sustainability and the environment.

The initiative was met with enthusiasm from both teachers and students. Nicholas Henderson, Eco School Co-ordinator at Cumber Claudy said, “I must say the children loved the tree planting. The P1s couldn't stop talking about it all day! Thank you so much to Foyle Port.”

At St Colmcille's Primary School, Claudy, Colum Tracey (Eco-School Co-ordinator) said “Our Eco Team worked with Foyle Port this morning planting a cherry blossom tree to celebrate their 170th year. We were delighted to be presented with a ‘Tree Guardian Award’. Thank you Foyle Port for your support. And well done boys and girls!”

Mrs Donaghy, Principal at Oakgrove Integrated Primary School proudly shared, “Our Eco Council were the proud recipients of a stunning cherry blossom tree. Thanks to David O'Neill and everyone at Foyle Port, for the opportunity for our pupils to become active 'Tree Guardians'. We hope everyone enjoys the cherry blossom tree in full bloom!”

The tree-planting programme is just one of a series of community-focused initiatives taking place as Foyle Port reflects on its legacy and looks ahead to the future.

David O’Neill said, “We were delighted to distribute the trees to the local schools. This was a small but meaningful way to thank our communities and invest in the next generation. Sending thanks to the schools who got involved and an extra special thank you to all the boys and girls for their hard work. We hope their trees stand tall for many years to come!”