Woolwich Common Cycle Lane Plans Spark Controversy Over Tree Removal

As of November 16th, 2025, the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust is proposing a plan to rebuild and upgrade a 1km stretch of road on Woolwich Common in southeast London. The trust's goal is to transform the road, known as Stadium Road and Baker Road, into an adoptable highway that meets the standards of the local Highway Authority.

However, the trust's plans have sparked significant controversy within the local community. The proposed road widening would result in the removal of up to 46 trees, as well as 7 others that are in poor condition. This has drawn strong objections from hundreds of residents, as well as local groups like Greenwich Cyclists, Friends of Woolwich Common, and The Charlton Society.

The NHS trust has attempted to mitigate the impact by proposing to plant 76 replacement trees. But objectors argue that newly-planted trees will take years to reach the carbon-reducing equivalent of the mature trees that would be cut down. They also express concerns about the release of stored carbon from the felled trees.

Despite the backlash, the trust maintains that the road improvements will "offer enhanced and safer cycling and pedestrian facilities along this route." Greenwich Council is set to make a decision on the proposals on Tuesday, November 21st, 2025.