Hi again everyone!

Thank you all for your continued support and to those members of the community who were able to come to a late notice press photo by the Trelawney trees yesterday, 3rd March 2025, (see photo above)

Whilst we were gathered, a statement was posted on Facebook by the Cornwall County Councillor for Falmouth and Penryn, Laurie Magowan.

He writes that on 28th February 2025 he met with Senior Council Officers and the Portfolio Holder Councillor Martyn Alvey to discuss the proposals to remove the trees on Trelawney Road.

Based on previous information presented, Cllr Magowan had supported the proposal on the understanding that all alternatives had been exhausted and that the trees presented a risk of damage to the public footpath, highway and nearby property. He says that the proposal seemed appropriate and proportionate. 

He continues saying;

“I have recently been made aware of additional information that means that I have changed my position and now do not feel that the action being taken is in proportion to environmental risks identified”.

However despite his withdrawal of support, Cllr Magowan ends his post stating that it is Cornwall Council who will determine the next steps and that this is likely to be progression of the proposal to fell the Trelawney trees from Monday 17th March 2025.

The glaring question is;

What is the nature of this “additional information” that caused Cllr Magowan to change his mind?

We know that very little factual information has been provided to the community as a whole or to individuals who have emailed various Council parties. Given Cllr Magowan’s reversal of support, it would be very reasonable for concerned members of the public to write to Cornwall County Council with relevant questions.

In particular what evidence is there;

• Of any problem? eg independent surveys and reports.

• That there are no alternatives to felling?

• That Cornwall County Council carried out due diligence in its decision making process?

• That Cornwall County Council carried out due process with regard to consultation in line with DEFRA guidelines?

Ultimately, it is us as taxpayers who will be funding any work. If Cllr Magowan has now publicly withdrawn support for the tree felling actions proposed by Cornwall County Council, then surely the taxpayer should be able to question the decision making process as well.

How has the decision come about?

What was the consultation process?

Is it a good use of taxpayers money?

Why has Cllr Magowan publicly withdraw withdrawn his support.

Suggested email:

enquiries@cornwallhighways.co.uk

And to Cornwall County Councillors (addresses on CCC website) especially;

*Martyn Alvey, Portfolio Holder and  

Laurie Magowan

 with copies to;

Connor Donnithorne

Alan Jewell

Alan Rowe

David Saunby and

CEO of Cornwall County Council and Clerk to the Lieutenancy:

Kate Kennally

Thank you so very much!