Public concern over tree felling in town's memorial gardens is taken on board by councillor who releases update
People concerned about the cutting down of trees in a town’s memorial gardens have been assured that new ones will be planted as part of improvements.
Regular users of Victoria Park on Duke Street, Staveley were alarmed to see several trees being chopped down in the grounds where a war memorial stands and where Remembrance Day is commemorated.
Tom Oxley said: “Does anyone know why they’re cutting the trees down at the Memorial Gardens? I’m a bit concerned about the impact on local wildlife — these trees provide important habitats and shelter. I completely understand if they were dead or dying, but they looked healthy and flourishing to me. I also thought the focus nowadays was on planting more trees, not cutting them down, so it would be good to understand the reason behind it.”
Cllr Allan Ogle, who represents Staveley South on Chesterfield Borough Council, took up the issue after being contacted by residents. He posted: “Seeing the trees removed is always a sad sight and perfectly understand why people feel so strongly about it. Trees are such an important part of our local environment and community, and it's never easy to see them go.”
Most of the 11 trees facing the chop have structural issues which could pose a danger to safety, according to a planning application which Cllr Ogle highlighted. In February the borough council approved the cutting down of four cherry trees, two horse chestnut, one hawthorn, one birch, one ash, one crab apple and one Portuguese laurel. A survey identified that 32 trees in the park required work ranging from removal, reduction and the cutting out of deadwood to crown lifting, pruning and the severing of ivy.
Cllr Ogle added: “I've spoken directly with the council's tree officer, and I want to reassure residents that this is part of a wider, positive plan for the area. There are proposals for around 350 new shrubs, additional trees, and an ambition to achieve Green Flag status, which would recognise the park as a high quality, well-managed green space for everyone to enjoy.
"It's encouraging to see plans that will enhance and protect the gardens for future generations, especially important as we reflect and remember those that made the ultimate sacrifice.”
A spokesperson for Chesterfield Borough Council said: “Appropriate permissions were granted for the removal of several trees from Staveley Memorial Gardens, most of these were structurally unsound and posed a hazard to pedestrians and vehicles. The removal of these trees is part of an ongoing programme of improvements in Staveley Memorial Gardens, which will include planting 15 new trees and 350 new shrubs along with the refurbishment of benches, gates, and surfaces.”
The memorial gardens are believed to have originally been the little orchard of Staveley Hall.