Southend-on-Sea High Street artificial tree proposal rejected

The concept of placing artificial trees along a bustling High Street, described as lacking “ambience and character,” has been labeled “ridiculous” by municipal authorities. Conservative councillor Judith McMahon put forward the idea of distributing 150 artificial trees to businesses in Southend-on-Sea to achieve an “instant impact” and “soften” the shopping area. However, Daniel Cowan, the Labour leader of the council, characterized the proposal as “pure fantasy” and affirmed that the city was slated to receive a green oasis. He stated, “We want real trees in our High Street and actually we have plans to do it. What we’re not going to do is waste council taxpayers’ money on ridiculous ideas.” During a recent full council meeting, Ms McMahon remarked: “The proposal to give faux trees to shops would soften and add character at a very small cost. There is no leaf litter, no root damage and businesses would be the responsible agent to anchor, care for and display the trees.” She further commented: “This would be an instant impact with an encouragement to businesses to add to and enhance this perhaps even by competition.” The initiative, estimated by Ms McMahon to cost £7,500, received support from her Conservative colleague, Kevin Buck. He asserted that the trees would provide “immediate visual improvement,” as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS). The Prittlewell Ward councillor also noted: “Artificial trees can be made from many materials. They do not necessarily need to be plastic.” Conversely, Stuart Allen, the Green Party councillor representing Leigh Ward, stated: “I don’t know how not to be rude. I think this is ridiculous. I thought it was an actual joke. Artificial trees are not going to provide shade for people or air generation. It’s crazy.” Mr. Cowan characterized the proposition as “a completely un-costed Conservative idea.” He elaborated: “The cheapest tree made out of plastic of a reasonable size is about £2,500. We’re talking £375,000 – that’s for plastic trees.” He continued: “If you are talking about fibreglass, that’s £8,000 a tree. You’ve not costed this. You’ve pulled this out the air. It’s a complete and utter nonsense.” He dismissed the concept as “complete and utter fantasy,” further remarking: “I’ve spoken to BID and they think there are so many better things this council could be spending money on.”