The trees are safe... for now.
Thank you to everyone who responded so quickly to this shocking event.
Through probing discussion with Islington Council, who engaged fully and quickly with the issue, it emerged that this was a horrible mistake - their email says
"I can confirm that the trees are not being removed.
... This situation arose as a result of administrative error and a failure to follow the appropriate procedures. We appreciate that this caused concern for local residents and apologise for any confusion.
Unfortunately, an error was made on the tree works order issued to our contractor, which incorrectly indicated that the trees were to be felled. In addition, the contractor failed to apply a felling notice, which would have identified the error before any work commenced.
Following our investigation, the contractor is no longer undertaking works within the borough, and any outstanding work orders issued to them have been cancelled."
While this is a relief, it leaves many unanswered questions.
We believe the trees may be under threat due to insurance claims, and this may raise its head again in the future.
Thanks again for your support, we will keep collecting signatures in case of future threats to the trees.