Home / Environment / Lancashire Lime Trees Face Axe for Flood Defenses
Lancashire Lime Trees Face Axe for Flood Defenses
4 Jun
Summary
- 18 of 21 heritage lime trees are slated for removal.
- The trees were planted in 1912 for King George V's coronation.
- The Environment Agency cites flood defense needs as the reason.
A fierce debate is unfolding in Walton-le-Dale, Lancashire, over the proposed felling of 18 century-old lime trees. These 'royal limes,' planted in 1912 to honor King George V's coronation, stand on Victoria Road and are cherished for their heritage and identity. The Environment Agency (EA) plans to remove them as part of a multi-million pound flood risk management scheme for Preston and South Ribble.
The EA asserts that the trees' extensive root systems make retaining them unfeasible for the necessary flood defenses. They state that felling is a last resort, prioritized to protect hundreds of homes and businesses from flooding. The agency has taken cuttings from the trees, intending to replant them, and claims no other option is financially viable, citing utility and communication cable constraints inland.
However, campaigners, organized as the Save the Royal Limes Action Group, believe viable alternatives exist. They contend that their proposed solutions would protect the trees, preserve ecological benefits, and prevent an extended 18-month road closure. Despite South Ribble Borough Council's approval of the EA's plans, the campaigners have applied for a judicial review of the decision.
