Politicians welcome U-turn over plans to fell Wolverhampton park trees
A change of mind over plans to to cut down several mature trees in a Wolverhampton park has been welcomed by political leaders in the city.
The plan to cut down the trees at Bantock Park to make way for an overspill car park was scrapped following public outcry at the proposed scheme.
Wolverhampton South West MP Eleanor Smith and Labour Councillor Dr Michael Hardacre visited Bantock Park to talk about the change in plan by the council and thank the public for making their voices heard.
Dr Hardacre lives just 100 yards away from the park and expressed his pleasure at the decision to save an area he described as "32 acres of heaven".
He said: "I welcome the change of mind as we should not be increasing our carbon emissions at the expense of some trees.
Praised
"All the people I have spoken to have said that there should be more development to enjoy the park and improve it for walkers, families, picnickers and general park users, but not as an overspill car park for a ring and ride."
Eleanor Smith welcomed the decision and praised Wolverhampton residents for making their voices heard.
She said: "I really appreciate that the council have listened to the views of local residents and retracted the plans of an overspill car park, which would have had many trees cut down.
"This is a perfect example of how important it is for the residents of Wolverhampton to get involved, and give their opinions in the consultation phase, as it really does affect the outcome."
