Incorrect Street Chosen for Tree Felling Due to 'Human Error'

Residents of a street in south-west London are "devastated" after a mature cherry tree was accidentally felled. The tree on Priory Road in Kew, Richmond, was mistakenly cut down by Premier Tree Care & Conservation, who intended to remove a tree on a Priory Road in Ealing.

Neighbours said they attempted to stop the contractors from removing the "healthy, mature, and beautiful" tree, but the work was completed within minutes. Alison Murphy, a nearby resident, recalled asking the workers for proof that the tree was diseased. The contractors showed her a letter from Ealing Council on a mobile device, which she later realized was for a different location.

"I wish I'd realized they were in the wrong borough, on the wrong road, cutting down the wrong tree," Ms Murphy said. "Another neighbour tried to explain that we werent in Ealing, but it all happened so quickly."

A spokesperson for Premier Tree Care & Conservation confirmed the tree was "sadly removed in error" and expressed "deepest regret," calling it a "human error." They added that a replacement cherry tree would be planted immediately.

Since the incident, the company has been in contact with residents to apologize and ensure a smooth resolution. Richmond Council stated that the removal had not been authorized and confirmed it would coordinate with Ealing Council and the contractor to prevent future mistakes.

"The tree planting season has just started. We will remove the stump, repair the pit, and plant a new tree within the current season. The contractor will be responsible for the costs," a council spokesperson said.

An Ealing Council representative said they are working with Richmond Council to determine the timing for planting the replacement tree. They added that residents have been reassured that a similar cherry tree has already been sourced and will be planted shortly.

Author: Sophia Brooks