Tree Removal for Newark Castle Redevelopment Draws Public Concern

A significant redevelopment initiative at a Nottinghamshire castle has involved the removal of surrounding trees. The ongoing efforts aim to make Newark Castle’s gatehouse accessible again, incorporating a ramp, galleries, and designated viewing spots. This project, which commenced last month and is projected to last two years, has seen 16 trees cut down, a decision that has caused distress among local residents, with one individual labeling it “disgraceful”. Newark and Sherwood District Council stated that the removal of the trees was undertaken to enhance visitor accessibility within the castle grounds. David Dunville, aged 65, who moors his boat at Newark Marina and frequently enjoys picnics with his grandchildren at the castle grounds, characterized the choice to remove the trees as “disgraceful.” He further commented: “I hate to see trees chopped down. It’s part of nature, it’s how we breathe, it’s our heritage.” His wife, Karen Dunville, 60, questioned the alteration, stating: “They must have been here for 100 years at least. Why start changing things?.” Fiona MacLeod, 51, a resident living close to Newark who often shops in the town, expressed being “shocked” upon witnessing the tree removal. She remarked: “I can understand why there are a lot of feelings, but now we can see the beautiful castle.” Simon Bennett, 60, who resides in Mansfield but is employed in Newark, commented: “There’s no delicacy about it and I think it looks more of an eyesore.” He further noted: “They’re a generational thing and a lot of people have grown up seeing those trees.” The overall cost of the project is estimated at £5.4 million, with funding sourced from a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant and a £3 million contribution from the government’s Towns Fund initiative. Newark and Sherwood District Council projected that the enhanced visitor experience would draw approximately 17,000 annual visitors from beyond the district. Paul Peacock, the council leader, stated that the choice to remove the trees was initially approved during the 2021 planning phase and subsequently reaffirmed in 2023. He asserted: “It’s no secret to anyone.” Peacock further explained: “We’ve carried out various tree surveys with specialists to explain to us the impact of the build, the impact of making the grounds more accessible.” He also mentioned: “We’re actually replanting trees nearby at the Riverside Park and also in those areas where we’ve taken the trees out.”