Three trees lining the central reservation of the London Road in Bath were destroyed over the Spring bank holiday weekend, during what is believed to have been a hit and run collision involving two vehicles.
The collision has been labelled “heart-breaking” and “senseless, reckless driving” by local residents and campaigners.
Lib Dem Councillor Lisa Brett (Walcot) commented: “These trees were planted in 2015 as part of the London Road regeneration project. It is heart-breaking to see them destroyed by dangerous driving after all the years of hard work undertaken by local residents and Councillors to develop the plans to improve the environment.”
“The Lib Dem administration was proud of its investment in the London Road as one of the main gateways to our city. The regeneration project helped transform a previously badly neglected area.
“The current administration must now step up and ensure that these trees are replaced and that the remaining trees and replacements are protected from further attacks.”
Local resident Ann Dunlop said: “I’m disgusted by the consequences of senseless and irresponsible driving, something we see far too much off on the London Road at night, thankfully nobody has been killed.
“These trees were planted for the benefit of the local community and to help improve the environment of London Road for all Bath residents and visitors. The criminal knocked them down should be ashamed of themselves.”
Chair of the London Road Regeneration Community Steering Group, Francesca Thompson, added: “The London Road regeneration project marked a turning point in the fortunes of London Road. This scheme was all about changing perceptions of London Road and attracting new businesses and investment to the area.
“Local residents led the way in deciding what improvements would make the most difference, and making the area greener with trees and planters was top of the list. It is so disappointing that the trees have been knocked down, but this does not take away from the overall achievement.”
Bath and North East Somerset Council is currently investigating the incident. Anyone with information about the collision should contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101.
