CAMPAIGNERS fighting to save trees from the chop are ‘amazed’ by the level of support they have received from the community.

Residents of Infield Park in Barrow have set up a petition called ‘Save Infield Park Trees’ which has received over 1,000 signatures.

A spokesperson for Save Infield Park Trees said: “The level of support is amazing, people value trees and the wildlife they support.”

In March 2023 residents received a letter from Westmorland and Furness Council on the proposed felling of 19 trees, which the local authority said was necessary for ‘public safety’ over concerns regarding the state of uneven pavements.

READ MORE: Plans to axe trees on Barrow street met with 'upset and disgust'

Following concerns raised by residents, the council paused plans to fell trees and said it would engage with residents to discuss options.

A report prepared for the Furness Locality Board in August said a public consultation would take place before a report is prepared for a meeting in January.

READ MORE: Council to discuss Infield Park tree plans in January

In a statement, Save Infield Park Trees said: “The residents of Infield Park are still coming to terms with Westmorland and Furness Council’s plan to fell the healthy street trees so that pavements can be maintained to current standard.

“Infield Park is a cul de sac with very little footfall, evidenced by the undisturbed moss growing on the pavements.”

The group said they had commissioned an arboriculturist report which concluded the proposed felling of the trees was an ‘overreaction’ and ‘unjustified’.

Residents say they are keen to work with highways to come up with a ‘viable solution’ to the footways and keep the trees but feel like the council are ‘trying to exclude’ the public from the consultation process.

A spokesperson for Westmorland and Furness Council said: “We want to reassure residents that we won’t be removing trees unnecessarily and are committed to continuing to engage with them and seeking their views before making any decisions on the next steps.

“We are currently exploring viable options regarding the footway and trees at Infield Park. It is important to us that we find the right balance between ensuring public safety and protecting the character of the streetscape.”

The group say they are holding a gathering on Sunday on Infield Park to show support for their campaign.