Talking Tree (Climate Emergency Centre)

Talking Tree is a Community Interest Company. This means that all assets are ’locked’ and profits generated will be used for the benefit of the community. It was established by a group of volunteers concerned about the climate emergency and the urgent need to take positive action to reduce CO2 emissions. Talking Tree works to raise awareness of climate change, to promote an accessible, sustainable lifestyle and to foster community in Spelthorne and the surrounding areas. The first of what is hoped will be a number of Climate Emergency Centres in North Surrey, Talking Tree is located at 91 High Street, Staines-upon-Thames.

The venue centres around an on-site café serving a vegetarian and vegan menu, using surplus ingredients whenever possible. The main exhibition and performance space provides an inspirational programme of arts, film, talks and music performance, while an adjacent meeting room and workshop can host local community groups and classes in practical skills to help participants live more sustainably. In time, we plan to open a ‘library of things’ and a community fridge.

With a provisional opening date for the high street venue in Spring 2021 (dependent very much on COVID restrictions), the organising team are launching an on-line programme in February 2021.

Talking Tree in Staines-Upon-Thames is only the second Climate Emergency Centre to open in Britain, with Ilford having launched in September 2020.