Havering Friends of the Earth

Love our trees

by Danuta Hart; first published 24-Feb-2023

Springfield Gardens, Upminster - John Robinson

We all know how important trees are, especially at this sad time of climate change, and that we must keep on planting many more to combat global heating. Why then do we seem to hate them in front of our houses?

On my walks round the neighbourhood over the years - now and again I have come across a miserable stump that suddenly appeared where a healthy tree was growing only a few days before. Soon even the stump is gone, its past existence covered up by tarmac.

On the slightest pretext we appeal to the council to have a tree removed. Instead, we should be asking to have avenues of trees planted or restored. Flowering trees will bring pollinating insects (which are disappearing at great speed) while broad leafed trees will absorb pollutants and give us respite from the scorching sun as frequent heat waves plague our summers. They will also help keep our houses and pavements cool.

When we buy a house with a garden why do we have to get rid of the mature trees already there? If you do not like the trees do not buy that particular house. Or before taking to the chainsaw, wait a few years and maybe you'll come to appreciate the beauty of those trees and the shelter they give you from the sun. Watch the delicate green of the first buds and leaves, the summer's deeper colours and the variety of yellows, orange and reds in the autumn. Appreciate the elegance of winter shapes. See those trees as your faithful friends waiting for you as you return home from work.

Looking at the council website I easily found how to have a tree removed but could not find any information how to apply (and possibly pay) to have a new tree planted. How do we account for this? Is the council really interested in greening our borough?

Many councils have signed up to the Tree Sponsorship Scheme, but Havering is not yet one of them. To encourage Havering to sign up - please go to Trees for Streets and click on "search for a scheme". This will allow you to fill out a form asking Havering Council to get involved. I encourage you to join us in this campaign.