A Labour-led city council has been criticised for backing an airport’s scheme to cut down “majestic” trees in a historic, wildlife-rich cemetery close to a runway.
Environmental campaigners, people whose loved ones were laid to rest in the cemetery and opposition politicians have expressed dismay that the trees in South Stoneham Cemetery in Southampton are to be lost.
Southampton airport argues that 29 trees including oak, cherry, cedar and cypress, in the council-owned cemetery should be felled or reduced in size so that the number of passengers can be increased.
Southampton city council’s cabinet gave its approval for a plan to be prepared to fell 19 trees, five of which are classed as “category A – highest value”, and carry out work on a further 10.
Katherine Barbour, the leader of the Green party group on the council, said it was deeply concerned by the move. She said: “It threatens our heritage and local biodiversity. These trees provide invaluable habitat, help combat air pollution, contribute to urban cooling and are a vital part of our community’s character.
“We urge the council and airport authorities to rethink and explore alternative solutions. Once lost, our mature trees cannot be replaced overnight.”
More than 800 people have signed a petition opposing the removal of the trees. The petition says: “For countless individuals, the cemetery is a sacred space for reflection and solace, with its majestic trees playing a vital role in shaping this tranquil environment.
“The cemetery is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including kestrels, swifts, swallows, owls, and both green and great spotted woodpeckers. It also shelters bats. Deer, foxes, and rabbits also call this area home.”
Liz Batten, a member of Transition Southampton and Southampton Climate Action Network, said: “Now that we’re so much more aware of the importance of trees to our survival and the outrage and heartache that comes from seeing mature trees being cut down, you’d think a city council like Southampton’s would have taken things gently.”
Rosemary Milne, who runs a local animal rescue centre, said: “It is all about big business.”
The airport says the trees presents an obstacle to planes departing and arriving. Aircraft are forced to fly with a reduced number of passengers and payload (fuel or luggage) so they can maintain safe clearance to the trees in the event of an engine failure.
It said: “The presence of the obstacles reduces the viability of this asset of regional importance, which damages the economic vitality and efficiency of the airport’s operations, to the detriment of the city of Southampton and wider central south region. Southampton International Airport Ltd has been loss-making since 2019 and the successful resolution of all obstacles will assist in securing its long-term future.”
The cemetery includes the graves of 66 military personnel and RJ Mitchell, who led the team that designed the Supermarine Spitfire.