Tees Issue - Andy Preston - Response
**Linthorpe Trees Update***
Update on the outrageous felling of trees on the former art college site that has understandably caused so much dismay and anger...
With the help of others, I believe I’ve identified the new owner of the land who instigated the cutting down of several trees.
I’m striving to confirm the information I’ve been given is correct - and will do so within the next 24 hours.
When I do, I’ll be contacting them to demand they don’t touch another tree - and to call on them to attend a public meeting to clearly explain their actions and future plans for the site.
I’ll be asking Councillor Philippa Storey, who has led on highlighting this incident, to help lead this meeting.
I’ll also look to provide a correspondence address for the owners so that the people of Middlesbrough can clearly but respectfully express their views to them.
Sadly, the law on such actions is weak and fines the council can give are limited. However, when it is confirmed exactly which rules have been broken, I can promise that I personally will press for the maximum legal enforcement be taken.
To be crystal clear, the land in question was not and is not council-owned - it is privately owned and changed hands within the last few days.
The land was sold and the trees were destroyed within days.
We cannot bring the trees back - but we can and will take any legal actions within our power if rules have been broken.
More info as soon as I have it.
Andy