10
May
2019
|
12:55
Europe/London

Have your say – Jubilee Avenue tree proposals

The City of London Corporation has launched a public consultation to gather views on what species of tree will replace the existing plantings that form the 430-metre Jubilee Avenue on Woodford Green.

Following an assessment from tree experts, the current trees have been found to be reaching the end of their lifespan, and are susceptible to disease, which can cause branches to break and create safety problems.

A decision was made to begin a phased approach to the replacement of the existing trees with a more sustainable species.

The avenue is currently made up of hybrid Black Poplar and London Plane trees.

The three species on the shortlist include English Oak, Hornbeam and Common Lime. All the alternative species were chosen for their appropriateness, suitability and character, reflecting the composition of the wider Epping Forest.

A consultation event will take place at 3pm on 11 May by the statue of Winston Churchill, towards the south of the site with an online survey running until 30 June.

Jubilee Avenue is part of the Woodford Green Conservation Area, designated by the London Borough of Redbridge.

Philip Woodhouse, Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Epping Forest and Commons Committee, said:

“As the Conservators of Epping Forest, we are committed to maintaining its natural aspects for the enjoyment of the local community.

“We now have the opportunity to make the avenue safer, ensuring that the feature can be enjoyed by future generations to come.

“I encourage as many of you as possible to share your views and help to shape the future of this historic planting.”

The land at Woodford Green was acquired by the City Corporation in May 1882 and has been held in its trust as part of Epping Forest ever since.

The City Corporation protects and conserves 18 important green spaces in London and south east England – including Hampstead Heath and Burnham Beeches - and over 200 smaller ones in the Square Mile.

They include important wildlife habitats, sites of scientific interest and national nature reserves. They are protected from being built on by special legislation.

The City of London Corporation funds green spaces across London. Its green spaces, most of which are charitable trusts, are run at little or no cost to the communities that they serve. They are funded by over £29million a year from the City Corporation, together with donations, sponsorship, grants and income generated on site.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

About the City of London Corporation

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Media enquires

Carl Locsin, Media Officer, City of London Corporation

T 020 7332 3654 / M 07388 862 229

E carl.locsin@cityoflondon.gov.uk