Trees saved after man's campaign (From Wimbledon Guardian)

Mitcham Common trees saved after man's campaign

1:30pm Friday 25th January 2013 in News By Omar Oakes

Plans to chop down a swath of trees to clear a muddy footpath in Mitcham Common appear to have been shelved after complaints from residents.

The Common’s board of conservators voted in favour of removing more than 10 trees last year, where Croydon Road meets the BP garage.

But, after firm opposition from the Friends of Mitcham Common and residents, it is understood that only one or two smaller trees will be now removed.

This week, 72-year-old Chris Wood managed to secure a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) from Merton Council to ban any removal of two chestnut trees, which he said were necessary to screen the petrol station and maintain the Common’s rural appearance.

He said: “I think it’s absolutely fantastic these trees are staying.

“I would like people to tell the council that they support this TPO because you never know, they might cancel it after six months if there is not wider support.”

As part of the plans, the two large horse chestnut trees, as well as two large willows, two large poplars and a number of sycamore and hawthorn trees would have been removed to make way for a 6ft fence to be erected next to the BP garage.

Martin Boyle, the warden of Mitcham Common who manages the park, said they had amended the plans but would not comment further on how many trees were being proposed to be removed.

He said: "We had meetings before Christmas, and after Christmas, and at the moment we are waiting for the Friends to respond to our amended plans."

To see Mr Wood's campaigning to keep the trees, visit facebook.com/save.mitchamtrees.