Replanting of Italian Poplar trees at Stroud Green begins

West Berkshire Council has started an exciting project to replant the iconic Italian Poplar trees at Stroud Green. This initiative not only keeps our community safe but also protects a cherished part of local heritage.

Councillors and Officers from the Council gathered on Monday 1 December to help replant these much-loved trees, ensuring that Stroud Green's historic and distinctive landscape continues to thrive for generations to come.

The original avenue was planted in the early 1970s and has been an important part of the local area for more than 50 years. However, recent arboriculture assessments showed that the ageing trees had reached the end of their natural life and were beginning to decline, creating potential safety risks for visitors and people walking nearby. To protect the public, the trees had to be felled.

In response to a survey carried out earlier this year, residents told us how important the character of the Avenue is to them. We received lots of suggestions, but the overwhelming response was to replant the same species - Italian Poplars. This retains the historic look and feel while introducing young, healthy trees that will thrive for decades.

Cllr Nigel Foot, Executive Member for Countryside at West Berkshire Council, said:

"We know how special this Avenue is to the community, and we want to make sure it remains a defining feature of Stroud Green. Replacing these ageing trees with healthy Italian Poplars allows us to protect public safety while preserving the heritage and natural beauty that residents value so much."

This project underlines the Council's commitment to public safety, protecting local heritage, and listening to our local community. The new Italian Poplars will preserve the classic appearance of Stroud Green, while providing homes for birds and insects, and helping to clean the air, making the Green a treasured open space for years to come.

_{Photo caption: l-r Richard Compton (Foremost Tree Surgeons), Cllr Billy Drummond (West Berkshire Council), Cllr Phil Barnett (West Berkshire Council), Jon Gurr (West Berkshire Council)}