Photo Copyright: Maggie May
There is nothing more Spring like than a tree in full blossom and it lifted my heart to see this tree on the edge of one of Bristol's fine parks while out walking the other day.
I stopped to take a photo.
When I actually entered the park and saw the tree from the other side, I spied a notice that had been stuck on the tree trunk and on reading it, my heart sank because it is due to be chopped down. There had been some fungus found at the base of the tree trunk. The tree was not going to be replaced because it didn't fit in with the park planning, whatever that meant.
Later in the week on Radio Bristol, I heard that the Council were suggesting that some of the city's parks could be sold and the money used for the local communities. As this park was mentioned by name as one of the parks that could be sold, I was appalled by this. No matter how much money the local community had to spend, once the park is sold, then it can never again be purchased. How short sighted and with no thought for the future generations of children and adults who would not be able to enjoy the beauty, space and childrens' play area as we have all done. To say nothing of the cafe and paddling pool and the chance to have picnics in a lovely setting without leaving the city.
Has this generation lost sight of the benefit of walking in beautiful places? Is it really all about money? Can giving up a green space be justified for cramming tiny houses and flats in a small space, at prices that nobody can afford anyway?
Is a bit of fungus so dangerous that a beautiful tree has to be cut down? Can't it be treated before such drastic action is taken?
What is wrong with the Council who isn't thinking beyond the end of their nose?
What gets up your nose because this has certainly got up mine?
