Police called to Sheffield street over tree felling protest

Police officers have been called to a street in Sheffield where protesters have gathered in a bid to stop trees being felled.
Anne BarrAnne Barr
Anne Barr

Contractors tasked with felling the trees in Bannerdale Road, Bannerdale, called South Yorkshire Police when they were unable to reach a tree due to be felled first thing this morning.

Protesters claim they have been ordered to move away from the trees or face arrest.

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Work to cut down 10 cherry trees om the street began yesterday, with protesters gathering to voice their concern.

The campaigners gathered again at 6am to try to halt the second day of felling, which is being carried out as part of the Streets Ahead project, which will see all Sheffield's roads, pavements and streetlights upgraded.

Campaigner Anne Barr, from Nether Edge, said one resident was in tears this morning as contractors arrived to start felling.

"One resident was in tears because years ago she paid for a tree to be planted and now she is being forced to stand by and watch it being felled," she said.

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"We protested against the felling yesterday and managed to save three trees but they came back today earlier than before to try again.

"We had to move away from the first tree we were trying to save in our none violent direct action because the police threatened us with arrest.

"We are now having to stand by and watch them destroy the trees."