๐๐๐๐ซ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐จ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐ข๐๐๐จ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ ๐ ๐๐จ๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ง๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐,
As the Shadow Cabinet Member responsible for Strategic Transport Infrastructure, including the development of cycleways, I feel it is important to address the concerns raised by recent events regarding the proposed tree felling in Clifford Bridge Road.
Thursday and Friday morning, we saw a clear display of community resistance, as residents gathered around the tree to prevent the tree fellers from proceeding with their work. This strong reaction from local residents is not only understandable but a reflection of the significant emotional and environmental investment many feel in preserving these trees.
From my position in the Shadow Cabinet, I want to make it clear that the Conservative Group has consistently raised concerns about the safety implications of the proposed cycleway route. Our position has always been rooted in prioritising safety for all road users. We believe there are safer, more suitable alternative routes that would meet the same goal of improving cycling infrastructure without the need to cut down 26 healthy trees.
It's deeply troubling that, despite these alternative options being available, the Council has chosen to press ahead with plans that appear to prioritise development over the environmental and safety concerns of residents. The decision to remove these trees is not just about losing green space, but itโs about sacrificing the health of our local environment and the safety of cyclists and pedestrians alike.
Yesterday, residents, together with Frank Beechey - Wyken Campaigner, took a stand by sitting around the trees to prevent their removal. Their commitment successfully halted the felling for the day. However, yesterday, reports have emerged that security personnel allegedly pushed two residents to the ground, one of whom is 60 years old. This is completely unacceptable and raises serious concerns about the way this situation is being handled. It also demonstrates the strength of feeling within our community.
On Thursday evening, I gave a statement on ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ฐ๐ฌ ๐๐ญ ๐๐ฉ๐ฆ, speaking on behalf of the Conservative Group to highlight our opposition to this reckless decision and to stand to support the residents. The Conservative Group remains fully committed to ensuring that development in our city is both safe and environmentally responsible.
We stand with residents in opposing this unnecessary destruction and will continue to push for a better solution. The strength of community action has already had an impact, and together, we can keep holding the Council to account.
Kind regards,
John Blundell
Shadow Cabinet Member responsible for Strategic Transport Infrastructure
