Greenwich Thameside path willows under threat

Greenwich council has deferred a decision on whether to approve a planning application which could result in the loss of riverside willow trees on the Thames Path. 

The application is for the construction of conveyor belts over the Thames Path at Morden Wharf on The Greenwich Peninsula, and associated refurbishment works to the Tunnel Wharf jetty. 

The planning committee was due to decide yesterday, but the decision has been put back until September “for legal reasons” and to allow for a site visit. 

A report to the committee confirms that ‘as a result of these works, the existing willow trees that are growing into the revetment will be felled’. 

Planned ecological improvements include possible unspecified replacement trees and a widening of the Thames Path. 

Transport for London, which is not objecting to the application, has expressed satisfaction that there will be no detrimental impact on the amenity of the Thames Path. 

The report before councillors claims that the willows are not of a high quality, with the Royal Borough confirming that it has no objection to their felling. 

The application has been made by Greenwich Limited through an agent, Nuala Wheatley for Lichfields Planning Consultancy.

Leigh Hatts, author of the Cicerone Thames Path guide, is calling for the trees to be retained. 

He told South London Press: “This is one of the best-loved stretches of the Thames Path on the Greenwich Peninsula because of the trees.

“The willows were planted just over 50 years ago by a previous owner who appreciated the riverside location and the possibility for working wharves to be attractive to passers-by.” 

Comments about the planning application can be submitted to: committees@royalgreenwich.gov.uk marked Planning Case Reference: 19/3298/F 

Pictured top: Willows on the Greenwich towpath (Pictures: Leigh Hatts)