The Best Guide for the Rossendale Area

The Fight to Save Trees in Helmshore Moves Up a Gear

It's been a busy week for residents campaigning to save a much-loved Horse Chestnut tree, and other trees, in Helmshore.

Sign at the foot of the horse chestnut tree shows
strength of public feeling in Helmshore

Saturday saw a number of residents, and people from as far afield as Bacup, gather at the Holmefield House site in Helmshore, where a new housing development is threatening the future of the landscape, which includes the Horse Chestnut tree at the entrance to the site.

Campaigners have also received two independent reports that indicate that whilst there is some evidence of disease, it is not as bad as other trees that have been left standing and thrived. As such, there is no real need to fell the tree and it can be monitored and maintained over the coming years.

Petition signatures are still being collected, both throughout the Helmshore area and also online by clicking here. 

On Monday, campaigner Ann Hodgkiss spoke on Radio Lancashire about the campaign, which has also attracted support from Rossendale MP Jake Berry, himself a resident of Helmshore, who has contacted developers Taylor Wimpey to express the objections of residents. Taylor Wimpey have agreed to appoint a tree consultancy company to undertake a further review of the tree and it is expected that this will be completed in the next seven to ten days.

Under threat: The Horse Chestnut tree in
Helmshore 

In a letter to local residents, Jake Berry said: "As a local Helmshore resident, I am only too familiar with this tree and I was distressed to hear of Taylor Wimpey's proposal to have it removed due to a claim that it is in poor condition. I am aware that this tree is a landmark in our village and I will do all I can to ensure that the wishes of local residents are taken into account as part of this development and that we continue to enjoy this tree for many years to come."

We will bring you further news as it becomes available.

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