Tree‑removal work along the section of the Lichfield Canal between Cricket Lane and the shops on Tamworth Road has taken place, forming a necessary part of preparing the route for restoration. Although the loss of trees is always sensitive, each removal was based on detailed professional assessments to ensure only trees that could not safely remain were taken down.
Why removal was necessary
A full Arboricultural Impact Assessment, commissioned as part of the planning approval process, confirmed several unavoidable issues:
- Trees growing inside the future canal bed, having self‑seeded since the canal was infilled.
- Trees with roots extending into the canal channel, which would become unstable if those roots were cut during construction.
- Trees already dead or in decline, identified as unsafe.
Using this information, some trees have been removed, while others have been carefully coppiced to reduce their height and root spread.
LHCRT and Lichfield District Council have worked closely to minimise the impact on the landscape, and the much‑loved mature oak near Fish Face has been fully protected, with the canal alignment adjusted to keep it in place.
A greener future ahead
Although the area may look stark during construction, the approved Landscape and Environmental Management Plan includes new habitats, increased biodiversity and replacement tree planting. So by 2027, residents will see a revitalised blue‑green corridor emerging, with the restored canal set within a healthier, more resilient landscape.
Our environment volunteer, Leon, has been on the ground during the work — here he is to talk you through what’s been done.
