Council decides against chopping down Ellesmere trees

News that trees in the promenade on Cross Street are not being chopped down was welcomed by local campaigner Rob McBride.

Shropshire Council confirmed that it decided against the removal due to the “strength of feeling” after a recent consultation.

The council had initially planned to remove the trees due to ‘root heave’ which could cause the nearby paving to become uneven and become a trip hazard.

Four trees on the Promenade area on Cross Street, Ellesmere are to remain in place following a public consultation into their proposed removal.

Mr McBride argued that the trees had a wider value to the town these included “climate and temperature regulation”, “air quality” and “stormwater management”

A spokesperson for Shropshire Council said: “Following a review of the consultation responses, and having considered the strength of feeling expressed, a decision has been reached that the trees will remain.

“The council will now look to address the issues associated with the condition of the footway and ongoing root heave, in order to improve safety while retaining the trees.”

A set of four trees in Ellesmere are to remain in place after public campaign (Image: Rob McBride)

Mr McBride welcomed the news and called for further work within the budget available.

“Sense has prevailed,” said Mr McBride. “Now we have to ensure that the space is made as safe as is possible within tight budgets of course.

“This should included an appropriate cycle of tree surveys for the species and high footfall site.”

Mr McBride added that he would soon be announcing further plans for trees in the town.

He added: “My next project for Ellesmere's Treescapes is due to be finalised over the coming weeks.

“Watch this space for some exciting developments. Who knows, we may very well have some 'Celebritrees' involved with Ellesmere's trees soon.”