The Chairman of Isle of Wight council, Councillor Karl Love, has strongly condemned the removal of trees from the roundabout in East Cowes, describing the scene as “appalling” and an act of “nature vandalism”.
The roundabout, which had been planted with trees to blend into the surrounding environment, has now been left bare, prompting concern from the local community.
No history of accidents
Councillor Love, who represents East Cowes, expressed disbelief at the removal of the trees, stating that there has never been an accident in the area that would justify such an action.
He emphasised that the vegetation had been an important part of the roundabout’s design, supporting wildlife and creating a natural ecosystem.
Community anger over destruction
Having recently driven past the roundabout, Councillor Love described his shock at seeing the changes, saying that members of the community were “up in arms” over the loss of the well-established greenery.
He stressed that the roundabout had been covered with trees for many years, providing a habitat for birds and other wildlife, and that their sudden removal had taken place without consultation.
Calls for immediate replanting
Councillor Love criticised Island Roads, the organisation responsible for the roundabout’s maintenance, for what he sees as a contradiction in their conservation claims.
While acknowledging the need for road safety, he insisted that the roundabout had never posed an issue for drivers and that the trees must be reinstated.
Making clear that the matter requires urgent attention, he stated,
“I insist that it is replanted immediately with the same species of trees.”
OnTheWight has written to Island Roads and will update once we hear back.
