Newly-planted trees ‘spoiled green space’
‘NO ROOM LEFT FOR ACTIVITIES’
A GREEN space has been spoilt - by the planting of a large group of trees, a councillor claims.
A number of beech, silver birch and hornbeam saplings were planted in December by members of Loughborough Green Gym, a franchise licensed to Charnwood Borough Council, as part of efforts to plant 100,000 trees across the area, including 550 at Charnwood Water.
Labour councillor Mary Draycott, who represents Hastings ward, said the choice of location at Charnwood Water has limited how the space can be used for recreational activities.
She said: “The first time this planting was known about by residents, or indeed ward councillors, was by seeing the work that had taken place.
“No consultation had taken place and it has come as a very unwanted experience by many, judging from the complaints I have received.
“No longer will there be room for activities, with now only a small narrow pathway left, which is very uneven terrain including mole hills.
“Another consequence of this quick win by Charnwood Borough Council is the number of trees now damaged, not I believe maliciously but mainly by dogs, unintentionally.
“This park is also a well-used walkway from Tuckers Road to Leicester Road and is now a hazard course for many.”
A spokesman for the council said: “The council is committed to improving its open spaces, which includes a pledge to see an additional 100,000 trees planted.
“Charnwood Water is an important area with a primary purpose of wildlife conservation, biodiversity and environmental education.
“The council recognises the site is used by residents for recreational activities and large open-grassed spaces have been left for these.
“We’re committed to planting trees in areas with lower than average canopy cover, which includes Loughborough Hastings ward.”
The authority said it accepted more information could have been made available but said it is not routine to consult on projects where “no direct impact is evident”.
“Last year more than 1,000 trees were planted on open space adjacent to Gorse Covert and a consultation was not carried out for similar reasons,” the spokesman said.
“We will continue to manage and maintain Charnwood Water for the benefit of all visitors and hope we can engage with residents to develop a management plan for the site.”