| Topic: | Re:Tree felling on Thames Path at Putney | |
| Posted by: | anthony hannaford | |
| Date/Time: | 18/03/16 13:14:00 |
| I am also very perturbed about this issue. I've contacted the PLA who are responsible for the river environment to enquire what's going on. I was told by a 'customer services' person that the trees were damaging the revetment and had to be felled. When I asked why this situation had been allowed to develop over the last 50 years there was no explanation. When I asked why some trees, in that case, had been left there was again no answer. When I enquired about the removal of stumps remaining and when, there was, once again, no answer. I pointed out that if the stumps were left they would rot, disintegrate and leave large holes in the bank where water to erode further. I also pointed out that I was under the impression that tree roots actually held river banks together and were an essential barrier against erosion. Additionally, the trees encouraged wildlife. It appears there are no plans as yet to remove the stumps and repair the resulting holes. Apparently this cutting was done as a prelim to continuing the destruction further along the towpath to Barnes. Since this conversation, I have discovered that the work was paid for by Fulham football club. Which is very odd as responsibility lies with the PLA. It appesrs a deal has been made whereby to enable Fulham to expand the stadium, opposition from the sailing club and others on the Putney side of the river has been averted by fulham agreeing to pay for the trees to be cut - apparently on the grounds that they 'interfere with sailor's wind and might fall on boats and rowers'. Methinks some rather dodgy dealings going on here. And the result looks appalling. This may run and run... |