Over 400 people took part in a protest march around Cockermouth to voice their opposition to the proposed felling of more than 40 mature trees.
The trees, on the edge of Harris Park and along the Greenway, will be cut down to make way for a luxury block of flats and six houses as part of The Sidings development, following Cumberland Council’s recent decision to grant planning permission for the scheme.
Protestors gathered on Saturday and one of the organisers, Gabrielle Sanders, said: “It was wonderful to see so many people turn up and join in.
“It just shows the strength of local opposition to the development. People in Cockermouth know that the woodland provides precious habitat for wildlife such as red squirrels, birds and bats.
“Harris Park and the Greenway are also enclaves of peace and tranquility in an increasingly busy town centre. People were very clear on Saturday. These trees matter and we won’t stand by and watch them be cut down.”
Fellow organiser Kate Parry added: “I found it really heartening to see people of all ages and from all walks of life joining in. Protesters ranged from five years old to 92 years old. Shopkeepers were standing in their doorways clapping and waving. Car drivers were tooting their support. The atmosphere was great.”
Protesters were joined by award-winning filmmaker Terry Abraham, who addressed the crowd.
Afterwards, Terry said: “The people of Cockermouth have big hearts. They sent a clear message to Cumberland Councillors on Saturday: This woodland is an important feeding ground for red squirrels – one of this country’s most beautiful and rare creatures. The trees have tree protection orders on them. Why have these been removed? Cockermouth people want answers.”
Local musicians were also present, including Dave Camlin and his choir, Sing Owt, and young Cockermouth singers Tilly Bridgman and Freya Atherton.
A petition opposing The Sidings development, launched by campaign group Protect Cockermouth Wildlife, has now attracted 5,500 signatures.
Mr Abraham has previously spoken out against the plans, by Dobies Cumbria, here.
