The mature trees lining Methilhaven Road in Methil, and past the local landmark known as "Big Tree" are under imminent threat. Fife Council intend to remove a significant number of these beautiful and vital green assets as part of an Active Travel Network initiative - all before the end of February. What's more concerning is that this decision was made without proper public consultation, detailed plans made available, or a full Planning Application even lodged.

These trees are not just a part of our landscape. They make our town more liveable, enhancing its beauty, enhancing our well being and providing essential environmental benefits too. Some of them have been here before our own homes. Yet, their fate has been decided behind closed doors.

This petition is important because we are about to lose part of what makes Methil a wonderful place to live in. The council's plan disregards the value these trees hold for us residents and the positive impact they have on our health and wellbeing, instead prioritizing infrastructure over nature.

According to Forestry England, mature trees like those on Methilhaven Road can absorb up to 48 pounds of CO2 per year while releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere (Forestry England). They reduce flooding, improve air quality, provide much needed habitat, provide a connection to our diminishing local heritage, and even reduce stress and anxiety. By removing them to be replaced with yet more tarmac and concrete, we risk actually making our environment in Methil worse. You can read more about the benefit of urban trees and why we need to save them here https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/protecting-trees-and-woods/benefits-of-urban-trees/

So far only some residents have been given fliers notifying them of the tree felling from the Aberhill Primary School to the Toll Bar Roundabout and no details have been made available to view online. But this is only phase one. The whole route (Route P1.2) is suggested to go from the Bawbee Brig to Levenmouth Academy and the new housing development proposed to the north and west of Methil. The full Route could result in even more trees being felled in subsequent stages. 

We urge Fife Council to reconsider their decision and involve us - the people who live here - in discussions about how best to balance progress with preservation. We urge Fife Council to provide the public with full detailed information so we can make an informed decision about the fate of our community and our beautiful urban trees. 

If you believe that these trees should be saved; if you feel that green spaces make our town better; then sign this petition now! It will only take a moment - before it is too late.