The SPJARA Trees Event

A meeting for all local residents was held on 8th February at Church House, Painswick Road, for the launch of the SPJARA Trees Project for the planting, care and maintenance of our neighbourhood trees.

An interesting and useful programme was arranged by the Chair of the Association, Michael Dower, who invited a panel of experts to come and speak, and to respond to questions from the floor. A proposed policy document was circulated, giving all who came along a chance to read a general statement and some proposals. All local residents are invited to comment and participate in this scheme.

The speakers included Chris Chevasse (the Council Trees' Officer), and Michael Dower, both of whom brought a wealth of slides to illustrate their points. Mike Gibson (our local Tree Protection/Senior Planning Officer), Cherry Lavelle, and Michael Barrett, a local tree surgeon, all provided helpful advice and comment.

A lively discussion followed the talks which continued informally over drinks and light refreshments. Many thanks to those residents and members who contributed and enabled the social side to go with a swing. The meeting was well attended and the mood was convivial, with a friendly community spirit - this is what SPJARA is all about.

If you have not come along so far please join us at some future date. Our AGM, which is open to all, both members and non-members, is on the 18th of April and there will be another chance to socialize at the end of the evening.