Drogheda City Now has criticised plans by Louth County Council to remove trees from West Street, describing the proposal as another sign of decline on the town’s main street.
The group says it has been contacted by residents concerned about the plans, particularly amid reports that permanent replacement planting is not currently funded and temporary tree containers are instead being considered.
Drogheda City campaign group, Drogheda City Now, has criticised plans by Louth County Council to remove trees from West Street, saying the proposal is another example of Drogheda’s main street being mismanaged and allowed to decline.
The group says it has been contacted by numerous concerned residents who are shocked by the proposal, particularly as there is reportedly no money available to replace the trees with permanent planting. Instead, temporary tree containers are being proposed.
Sylvia McCann, Executive Chairperson of Drogheda City Status Group, said:
“We have been contacted by a lot of concerned people about this. They simply cannot understand why the trees are being removed without a proper plan or funding in place to replace them. If the trees must go, there should be a commitment to putting proper, permanent planting back in their place. Temporary containers are not an adequate response.”
“West Street is Drogheda’s premier street. It should be something we are proud of. Instead, this is yet another example of how Drogheda is being mismanaged and how our streets and public realm are being allowed to decline.”
Ms McCann said the issue was about more than the trees themselves.
“Of course, there may be reasons why trees sometimes have to be removed. But what is the plan for West Street afterwards? Where is the investment? Why is there no money to replace these trees properly?”
“Drogheda is a large and growing urban centre. We should be seeing investment in our streets and public spaces, not a gradual deterioration and a series of temporary fixes.”
Ms McCann said the proposal was another strong argument for Drogheda becoming a city and having greater control over its own affairs.
“This is exactly the sort of issue that makes people ask whether the current way Drogheda is managed is working. We need to have a much greater say in our own future and be able to set priorities based on what Drogheda needs.”
“We should not be an afterthought within Louth County Council. A city of Drogheda’s size and importance should have the ambition, resources and decision-making power to manage its own affairs and determine its own destiny.”
“The West Street trees may seem like a small issue, but they are a good example of the bigger problem. When there is not even funding to properly replace trees on our principal street, it is fair to ask whether Drogheda is getting the attention and investment it deserves.”
Drogheda City Now is urging residents who are unhappy with the proposal to contact Louth County Council and their local councillors, and register their objections.
“We would encourage people who are concerned about this to make their views known. If the trees have to be removed, there should be a proper plan and funding to replace them.
“Drogheda residents deserve better than temporary solutions. We need investment, proper planning and, ultimately, a greater say in determining the future of our own town.”
