Over 900 People Protest Tree Removal for Coventry Cycleway

Over 900 individuals participated in a human chain in Coventry, aiming to prevent the felling of 26 trees designated for removal to accommodate a new cycleway. Activists sought to surpass a UK record for the largest collective tree hug, previously established in Cheshire. While 703 participants were required, 925 joined the demonstration. Organisers informed BBC CWR that they were “absolutely stunned” by the attendance, stating their intention was to visibly express their sentiments regarding the “beautiful” trees. The trees situated on Clifford Bridge Road are slated for removal to facilitate the construction of a cycleway. The city council has stated that these trees will be substituted with 32 saplings, which are expected to offer “greater long-term benefits.” Conversely, local residents are advocating for a revision of the plans or the identification of a “less destructive” alternative route. A council e-petition, urging the preservation of the trees due to their role as wildlife habitats, has garnered over 4,200 signatures. Dawn McCann, a co-organiser of the tree hug event, confirmed that the attendance figures established a new UK record, as documented in the Alternative Book of Records. She mentioned that participants received tickets to authenticate the count. Pru Porretta, who has served as Coventry’s official Lady Godiva for over four decades, was present as an adjudicator for the record, alongside Hits Radio presenter John Dalziel. She remarked to BBC Radio CWR, “Lady Godiva from 1,000 years ago walked in the Forest of Arden and all of Coventry would have been covered in these beautiful trees.” She added, “How gorgeous to see trees still here as I walk.” Among those protesting was 11-year-old Reuben, who had communicated his concerns regarding the trees to Sir David Attenborough and the King. Coventry City Council issued a statement, asserting: “The trees advertised for removal on Clifford Bridge Road are primarily in average condition with limited usable lifespan, and some are Ash trees affected by Ash dieback.” The council further stated: “Trees are an important part of moving towards net zero [carbon], and we will plant more trees than we remove.”