Protect our trees and they will protect us

The development of the former Richard Cloudesley School site next to the Golden Lane Estate has been granted Planning Permission by both Islington Council and the City of London.

The proposal involves the needless loss of seven existing semi-mature trees on the western boundary between the site and the allotments on Golden Lane Estate.

These seven established trees are in good health and have a reasonable life expectancy. The developers propose to replace them with just three new trees after the development is finished - at least 18 months down the line. This is no real compensation and the interim loss of habitat for nesting birds, bees and insects will be devastating.

The trees are not just beautiful but for up to a period of two years of demolition and noisy construction they act as the best barrier we have between a dirty building site and the estate. We'll desperately need the benefits of these trees during this time and we'll certainly need them afterwards to provide a green corridor providing shade, CO2 absorption, and biodiversity which will benefit the new school and residents alike.

Clean air for our children is essential - Prior Weston Primary School, just down the road, is one of the 50 most polluted primary schools in London, despite its proximity to Fortune Street Park. This was recognised by Mayor Sadiq Kahn when he came to the school last September to launch his new 'toxic air' audit. 

Our neighbourhood needs some serious anti-pollution busting measures and cannot afford to lose any trees, for any period of time, particularly when workable solutions are available. This is a similar situation faced by communities up and down the country – we must stop the destruction of perfectly viable trees.

SIGN THE PETITION – WE NEED OUR TREES!

Press:

Golden Lane locals rally to protect trees in danger

Jo Davy, 23 May 2018 - City Matters

Garden State: the Golden Baggers open their gates

Jo Davy, 6 June 2018 - City Matters