Folowing a 14 month campaign we have failed to save the 2 Plane trees in Elm Park Gardens. The felling work began on MOnday and the sight is devastating. The trees, 130 years old and 100 ft high are being felled as a result of two intansigent property owners who refuse any other option.

It is very difficult to find your voice in a society that has become increasingly insular and is more affected by issues raised by journalists after big stories with big celebrity names than real human issues. I am not a big name and this has not been a platform for a celebrity to access publicity.

As residents our objections and concerns have proved insufficient to save these trees. This is an autocratic decision with the consequences dramatically affecting the environment we all share and enjoy.

Respectful active supoprt has come from figures such as Ken Livingstone and members of the GLA; Darren Johnson and Victor Anderson and Birgit Cunningham of the Green Party.
They have not attempted to hijack this campaign and use it to gain public and press interest.

The support at the protest gathering also proved the apathy of the majority of residents who had on paper supported this campaign. Press coverage came from the Evening Standard and a local paper. However, the most important point of the day was the strength of feeling from the residents and supporters in attendance. The group may not have been large but the passion and commitment to the environment clear for all to see.

My sincerest thanks to those who did make the effort. This campaign has been handled with integrity, respect for the environment and a fair say for all concerned.
I will continue to press for a stronger commitment to the environment and future desicions based upon facts rather than through financial and legal threats.