Embarrassed developers have apologised “unreservedly” after felling a historic tree they promised to protect.
Housebuilder Mactaggart & Mickel, which is working at Carrongrove in Denny, says it made a mistake removing a Redwood planted to commemorate 200 years of the papermill industry on the site.
In 2009. the company gave assurances to The Falkirk Herald and worried members of Denny and Dunipace Heritage Society that it would not only preserve the tree but make it a “key feature” of the new housing development.
But last Tuesday heritage member John Sherry noticed that the important landmark was no longer there.
He said: “I was really shocked.
“The tree had previously been moved from its original position so it was completely unmarked and we were worried this would happen.
“But we realise that mistakes can happen and they seem to be doing what they can to put it right, so we are happy to work with them to try to save the tree.”
Craig Ormond, land manager for Mactaggart & Mickel said: “During the pre-construction phase of the development at Carrongrove, the commemorative Dawn Redwood tree at the site of the former papermill was removed.
“We have previously acknowledged the importance of this tree to the community and apologise unreservedly for this action.
“We fully intended keep the commemorative tree and it is an error on our part.
“We had to create a viable access route and drainage pond, and worked with Falkirk Council’s landscape officer and agreed a tree management plan for the first phase of the development.
“The tree felling on the site accords with what has been agreed with the council.
“As a priority we are working with Falkirk Council, Denny and Dunipace Heritage Society, and our aboriculturist to explore reinstating the tree and installing a plaque at the earliest opportunity.
“In April, work will begin on the first phase of construction at Carrongrove which will bring many benefits to the community including new homes, and importantly, new jobs and apprenticeships for local people.”
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