Elms prompt Keys debate

Plans to fell 25 mature elm trees in St Marks were discussed in the House of Keys today.

The proposals sparked a petition which has so far gathered more than 37 thousand signatures.

Protesters gathered outside the Tynwald buildings ahead of this morning's House of Keys sitting.

Douglas South MHK Paul Quine has called for the environment minister to make a statement.

Recently wildlife TV presenter Chris Packham slammed the move on social media appealing for planners to “sit down and have a re-think” while planning chair, Martyn Perkins said the road safety issues are difficult to ignore.

I've asked @MartynPerkins1 to please find a better solution and work alongside @manxnature and the landowner to improve the current access and save the Elm trees .@IOMGovernment @GeoffreyBoot #ElmTreeTunnel #ManxNature #OurBiosphere pic.twitter.com/ywLFxChJXR

— Chris Packham (@ChrisGPackham) June 29, 2021