Copy of letter to residents from PCC:
Re: Improvements to Grand Parade
I am writing to you today to thank residents for taking part in last November’s consultation about the trees around Grand Parade and to share our updated plans with you. The feedback we received and further investigations of the existing trees have allowed us to produce a final design that will make the area more pleasant and attractive. We’ve also started works this month to maintain Grand Parade and make it safer.Our new design involves replacing three trees with three new Elm trees (see map overleaf). The trees are being replaced because our investigations confirmed that:• One Elm tree on the eastern side of Grand Parade obstructs a lamppost column• One Tamarisk tree on the eastern side and one Cherry tree on the southern side by the parking meter are coming toward the end of their life cyclesThese improvements will take place from March 2023 and will ensure that the square remains a focal point for many significant events. All the other trees around Grand Parade will be kept and regularly maintained.Earlier this month, we also started works to preserve Grand Parade and make it safer. This included replacing the decking to reduce the risk of slipping, refurbishing the timber seating, and repainting the rails. Maintenance works will continue later this year as part of our efforts to revitalise the area.If you have any questions about our plans, please contact our engagement officer Kyle Trenouth-Wood at kyle.trenouth-wood@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or on 07385 949 356.
The final design involves removing two trees (red), planting two new Elm trees (green), replacing a Cherry tree with an Elm tree (gold) and maintaining the other trees that exist (blue).