Cornwall Council Pauses Felling of Trelawney Trees Amid Protests

Cornwall Council has halted plans to fell the three iconic Trelawney Trees in Falmouth, originally scheduled for the week of November 17. The decision follows intense public outcry and protests led by the local campaign group, Stop the Chop!.

The council’s initial justification for the removal of the healthy lime trees involved claims that their roots were damaging essential utilities, including power cables and water pipes. However, these assertions have been challenged by local officials, including Cllr Laurie Magowan, who stated that there was insufficient evidence to support such claims.

In a recent development, it has come to light that Cornwall Council reached a confidential out-of-court settlement with a third party, believed to be a nearby homeowner. While the specifics of the agreement remain undisclosed, sources suggest that the settlement could be valued at up to £100,000. This has raised further concerns among activists, who argue that the council lacks independent evidence to justify the planned felling.

Community Engagement and Transparency Issues

Following the protests, Cornwall Council has committed to engaging more with the community. A communication from a senior officer has confirmed that no felling will take place during the week of November 17, and a follow-up meeting with community members is to be scheduled.

A spokesperson for Stop the Chop! expressed cautious optimism, stating: “This is great news in the short term at least. We’ve been asking why the trees need to be felled for over nine months and had to experience three public protests.” The campaigners have repeatedly requested verifiable evidence from the council regarding the necessity of the felling, yet they claim no such evidence has been provided.

The spokesperson further noted that the council’s position has shifted, admitting that the foundation for the proposed felling is tied to the settlement rather than concerns over uneven pavements or damaged utilities. This revelation has prompted questions about the decision-making processes within Cornwall Council.

Concerns Over Future Precedents

Activists are now questioning how many other confidential settlements may have influenced tree removal decisions in the past. The spokesperson added, “Falmouth Town Council feels that it was misled into believing that the trees were dangerous when they’re healthy.” This sentiment highlights a growing distrust between the community and the local authority.

The ongoing situation surrounding the Trelawney Trees has not only sparked local protests but has also raised broader concerns about transparency and accountability in municipal decision-making. As the council navigates this contentious issue, many residents are left wondering how future tree management decisions will be handled.

Cornwall Council has been approached for further clarification regarding the reasons behind the suspension of the felling plans and the details surrounding the settlement. Until a comprehensive response is received, the fate of the Trelawney Trees remains uncertain, albeit momentarily safe from the axe.