A row of lime trees is set to be chopped down at a military base in Plymouth after the city council approved the decision for national security reasons. The seven mature trees at the Regimental Training Wing will be removed to make way for a new security fence, sparking outrage among locals.
While the council acknowledged the decision was regrettable, it emphasized that national security must take priority. However, residents are questioning the justification for cutting down the trees, especially after a similar incident last year dubbed the “midnight massacre” when 110 trees were felled in the city center.
The application to remove the lime trees was submitted by Vivo, which manages assets for the Ministry of Defence. Planning officers explained that the existing fence needed replacement to meet security standards for an active military facility.
Residents expressed disappointment over the loss of the trees, citing their mental health benefits and concerns about biodiversity. Despite objections, the fence installation was approved without committee review.
One resident highlighted the importance of preserving the trees for biodiversity and wildlife habitat, while another suggested building around the trees instead of removing them. The council assured that new trees would be planted on site and nearby, but residents argued that the replacements would not adequately compensate for the loss.
In response to the backlash, a council spokesman clarified that they granted permission to the Ministry of Defence to fell the trees on their own land. The council will not be involved in cutting down the trees, as it was a decision made by the MoD based on established planning policy and evidence provided.