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Shanklin Trees Could Be Axed As Part Of Council 'Safety Works'

Big Mead, Shanklin.

Some trees at Shanklin's Big Mead Park, Rylstone Gardens and Ventnor Park could be set to face the chop.

The Isle of Wight Council says it is part of 'essential work' to 'keep park visitors safe', and assured Islanders that any prominent trees removed will be replaced.

Work will start at Shanklin's Big Mead Park, where 65 trees have been identified. 

The council says many can be made safe by removal of limbs or other minor works, but some will need to be removed.

The planned work includes planting new trees next winter to ensure the popular park keeps its distinctive tree-lined landscape for future generations.  

Cabinet member for environment, heritage and waste management, Councillor Steve Hastings, said:

"The Isle of Wight Council is proud to be the custodian of woodlands and trees across the Island, from nature reserves to industrial estates.

"We want to increase tree cover on council land by planting more trees in the future, and working with local people to conserve and enhance our natural assets for generations to come.

"We understand the social, cultural, environmental and economic value of our trees and woodlands, and this is at the forefront of our tree management strategy.

"Our trees are regularly assessed by competent tree experts, and sometimes this means that we need to do work to keep them safe for everybody.  

"Where appropriate, we'll also be planting trees, and in Big Mead that will be going on next winter, to give the new trees the best chance to get established."

Investigations of trees will also take place at Ventnor Park and Rylstone Gardens in the future.

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