Walpole Gardens Structural Footway Maintenance Structural Scheme – felling of street trees

Results updated 28 Jan 2026

36 responses were received in total regarding tree felling at
Walpole Gardens. 34 responses were opposed to tree felling.
2 responses were in favour, however, even those
respondents said they would prefer alternative solutions if
possible.

Residents repeatedly emphasised how important the mature
trees are to the area. They provide shade, cooling, wildlife
habitat and air quality benefits, as well as the way they
improve the look and feel of the estate.

A major theme in the responses is the belief that the path can
be repaired or redesigned without removing any trees with
respondents suggesting a range of alternatives.

Respondents also acknowledge that the current path is
uneven and difficult for some users. However, most feel that
accessibility improvements can be achieved while keeping the
trees, as there is enough space to redesign the route in a
more sympathetic way.

Overall, the community’s view is clear that residents want the
mature trees to remain, and they urge Norfolk County Council
to look at alternative engineering solutions that improve
accessibility without removing them.

Following the consultation, Norfolk County Council has decided
not to proceed with the proposed tree felling. Instead, the
council will explore alternative engineering solutions that allow
the scheme to be delivered while retaining the existing trees.

While the final design is still to be confirmed, the preferred
approach is now expected to use a narrower surfaced area
alongside a revised pavement design that can better
accommodate root heave.

The scheme will now be redesigned and brought forward at a
later date, replacing the earlier proposal.

We would like to thank residents for their feedback and engagement throughout this process.

Files:

• Walpole Gardens Consultation Decision Notice.pdf, 126.3 KB (PDF document)