Don't flush away our heritage
Chapel en le Frith, is a picturesque village located in the heart of the Peak District in Derbyshire.
However, one of its treasured trees in the Market Place is at risk of being cut down to make way for public toilets, that have been unused and out of order for years.
Why does this tree matter...
The tree in the Market Place is a much-loved part of Chapel-en-le-Frith and plays a big role in how the town looks and feels. Having stood in the heart of the town for generations, it has become a familiar landmark and something that many local people have grown up with. It adds colour, character and a sense of warmth to the Market Place, making it a more pleasant and welcoming place to spend time.
The tree is an important part of the town’s identity and heritage, helping to give Chapel-en-le-Frith its unique charm and making the town centre feel special.
Through Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, High Peak Borough Council has recently said that they are removing the tree as part of plans to redevelop the public toilet block in the Market Place. While the toilets have been unused for a number of years, lots of people feel the loss of such a prominent and historic tree would have a significant impact on the appearance and character of the town centre.
Other options to keep the tree have also been suggested - we want these to be heard.
What you can do to show your support?
Sign and share our petition
Hundreds of people have signed the petition calling for High Peak Borough Council to rethink their position.
You can visit the petition by clicking on the link below or using the QR code.
Write to High Peak Borough Council
Cut and paste the text below and send it to:
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to request that High Peak Borough Council considers making a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for the tree located in Market Place, Chapel-en-le-Frith (SK23 0EN).
This tree is an important and highly valued feature of the town centre and makes a significant contribution to the character and identity of Chapel-en-le-Frith. As a prominent landmark within Market Place, it enhances the appearance of the area and provides an attractive focal point for residents and visitors alike.
The tree also has considerable landscape value. Its presence softens the built environment, contributes to the historic setting of the town, and helps maintain the distinctive character that makes Chapel-en-le-Frith unique.
Mature trees such as this are increasingly important for biodiversity, environmental quality, and the overall wellbeing of the community.
Given its visual prominence and contribution to the local landscape, I believe the tree merits formal protection to ensure that it is preserved for future generations. I would therefore respectfully ask the Council to assess the tree and consider serving a Tree Preservation Order.
This is a matter of urgency as the tree is currently at risk of being cut down to make way for the refurbishment of public toilets, that have been unused and out of order for years.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you regarding any assessment that may be undertaken on our request.
Yours faithfully,
INSERT NAME
RESIDENT/VISITOR TO CHAPEL (INSERT POSTCODE)
Write to Councillor Greenhalgh
Councillor Greenhalgh announced the decision that the tree was to be removed - and we are pushing for a meeting with him (he has yet to agree to this).
Let him know your thoughts on:
Every argument has two sides, and we understand that people need to pee.
That is why, instead of cutting down the tree, local businesses have already offered the use of their toilets and people have come up with alternative modular options. There are other things to consider.
If you have ideas, or just want to be part of a group to look at alternatives and how this tree might be saved, then please complete the form below.
Help look at other options - get in touch
Get in touch
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