Trees on Birmingham streets could soon have greater protection after the Government announced proposals to protecting and enhance England’s trees and woodlands.
The proposals mean Birmingham City Council would have to consult local residents before cutting down trees on our streets.
The proposed measures will mean greater protection for trees such as the 100 year old Plane Tree which was cut down on Broad Street in 2017 to make way for a redevelopment of Centenary Square.
Environment Secretary Michael Gove said: “It’s right that the views of local people are at the heart of any decision that affects their community – and the futures of the trees that line their streets are no different. Trees have often been rooted in our towns and cities for many years, and are undoubtedly part of our local heritage.”
“These measures will enhance the protection given to urban trees, ensuring residents are properly consulted before trees are felled and safeguarding our urban environment for future generations.”
This consultation forms part of the government’s ongoing work to protect and promote our precious trees, including their commitment to plant one million trees in our towns and cities in addition to eleven million trees nationwide over the course of this parliament.
The proposals include:
- Making sure communities have their say on whether street trees should be felled with requirements for councils to consult local residents;
- Responsibilities on councils to report on tree felling and replanting to make sure we can safeguard our environment for future generations;
- Giving the Forestry Commission more powers to tackle illegal tree felling and strengthen protection of wooded landscapes.
The consultation closes on 28 February 2019. For more information and to view the consultation visit https://consult.defra.gov.uk/forestry/protecting-trees-and-woodlands
