Sheffield Council lays new pavement around war memorial trees

New paving has been laid around a street of war memorial trees in Sheffield.
Streets Ahead contractors in Western Road.Streets Ahead contractors in Western Road.
Streets Ahead contractors in Western Road.

Council contractors carried out the work in Western Road after digging under the trees to explore their root systems.

Campaigners have been fighting to save the 23 trees earmarked for felling as part of the Streets Ahead programme. The trees were planted as a memorial to pupils from nearby Westways School who died in the First World War.

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One campaigner, Graham Turnbull, posted a picture of the new paving on Twitter, suggesting council contractor Amey had 'accidentally' saved the trees.

But the council said the new surface was only temporary.

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Cabinet member for the environment Bryan Lodge said: “Streets Ahead recently carried out investigations to the trees on Western Road to determine the position of the roots and how they may affect further works.

"Temporary surfaces have been laid around these trees while the council evaluates the findings alongside any advice received from the Independent Tree Panel, before arriving at a final decision.

“We remain committed to retaining and honouring the memorial on Western Road, as well as four additional memorial sites across the city.

"By replanting and rededicating these memorials over the coming months, we hope to be able to unveil new fitting memorial sites in time for Armistice Day this November.

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"Working closely with the War Memorials Trust and the local community, we will ensure fitting and long-lasting tributes to those who gave their lives for this country.

“Given the unique nature of these trees, the council will ensure that all possible options for preservation and future maintenance of the memorial are fully explored before any work commences.”

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