Alone iconic Oak along Leather Lane, known locally as 'Ilona' is facing the chop by HS2
In March last year, the Campaign to Save Leather Lane was born to save the ancient Holloway of Leather Lane and a lone Oak, known locally as Ilona, from HS2.
A petition was set up by college student Blaize O'Callaghan and received over 43,000 signatures. At the same time, Richard Buxton Solicitors, wrote to HS2 once felling commenced, demanding to see Survey results. No survey results were provided and felling stopped upon threat of legal action.
HS2 have stated that Ilona must be removed for 'visual screening' as part of their Landscape design.
The Campaign, in conjunction with Great Missenden Parish Council, have made several well considered suggestions as to how Ilona can avoid the axe. HS2 could accommodate Ilona within their Landscaping design but they are continuing to state that she must be felled for visual and noise screening, which she has been providing throughout her 250 year reign.
The Campaign has also registered Ilona in the Woodland Trust's Ancient Tree Inventory.
Legal advisor, Lindsey Spinx commented:
"HS2 made commitments at the time the HS2 act was passed in order to protect biodiversity and to avoid harm where possible. We expect HS2 and their subcontracters to respect and honour these commitments at all stages of the project. It shouldn't be down to local groups to uphold the law but this is what we are doing until these commitments can be met."
Hundreds of people from the Chilterns and further afield have written to HS2's Chief Exec, Mark Thurston objecting to HS2's plan to fell her, demanding an explanation and a review of their plans.
The Campaign has also registered Ilona in the Woodland Trust's Ancient Tree Inventory.
As a result of ongoing pressure, it seems that HS2 are re-considering design plans for the area around Leather Lane.
The Campaign are inviting local residents, interest groups and Councillors along with a selected audience of press to visit Ilona tomorrow -Saturday 29 October from 12-2pm as part of the Woodland Trust's 'Check a tree week'.
Find more info here https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/things-to-do/events/check-a-tree-week/
You can read their latest letter to HS2 here.
More info can also be read here:
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