A tombstone has been added to the stump
What remians of the Tree of Lost Soles
The tree as it looked in 2012
RESIDENTS have taken matters into their own hands after the Tree of Lost Soles was chopped down.
A sign has appeared on what remains of the tree on Manchester Road in Woolston which reads ‘stump of the “lost” tree’ after the well-loved piece of abstract art was removed on Thursday.
There is also talk of a demonstration being planned where residents will tie shoes to the town hall gates.
Warrington Borough Council admitted on Friday that they were responsible for the tree being removed but the Guardian understands that no authority was given for its removal and it was down to a council officer acting off their own back.
Andy Farrall, executive director economic regeneration, growth and environment at Warrington Borough Council, said: “The Tree of Lost Soles was clearly recognised by the local community as an imaginative piece of popular public art.
“I apologise, on behalf of the council, for its unauthorised removal – this should not have happened.
“The ‘tree’ was deteriorating and a decision about its future would have been necessary in the near future. However it should not have been removed in this way and local people should have been involved in the decision about its future.”
Previously, the council said it was working with the parish council and local elected members to quickly plant a living tree in replacement but this has since been changed to state that they are simply working to plant a replacement.
- Do you think a living tree is a good way to replace the artwork? Email your thoughts to newsdesk@guardiangrp.co.uk.
