Debate Grows Over Tree Clearance at Lifeboat Road Formby

Concerns have been raised by residents after large areas of vegetation were recently cleared just south of Lifeboat Road in Formby. The work, carried out by the National Trust, is said to be part of an ongoing conservation project aimed at restoring sand dunes and protecting native species such as natterjack toads and sand lizards.

However, some locals have described the scale of the clearance as “disturbing,” saying that heavy machinery has been used to flatten significant sections of woodland and scrub that were home to red squirrels, deer, hedgehogs and birds of prey.

One resident told Formby Bubble she was “shocked to see the amount of tree loss,” particularly in an area promoted for red squirrel protection. Others echoed similar feelings, saying the landscape now looks “unrecognisable” and worrying that too much natural cover has been removed too quickly.

Environmental Concerns and Conservation Aims

Those questioning the work say they accept the need for management but are concerned about the methods used. Some suggested that more environmentally sensitive techniques could have been chosen rather than the use of heavy machinery, which can damage surrounding ground and habitats.

Another local resident said they understood the need to thin or replace dying trees but feared that large-scale clearance could lead to a loss of biodiversity in the short term.

In contrast, others within the community have defended the project, saying it is part of a long-term environmental plan that will ultimately benefit the area. They pointed out that many of the trees being removed are non-native poplars, which were planted decades ago and are now in decline.

One Formby conservation volunteer explained that “the poplars are of similar age and are reaching the end of their life cycle. Controlled thinning allows new growth and a greater mix of species to return. It might look bare now, but this work is based on ecological evidence rather than guesswork.”

Clarification from the National Trust

Following public concern, Formby Bubble was informed that the National Trust has provided reassurance on several points.

A ranger involved in the project confirmed that:

1. Only around 30% of trees in the Ravenmeols woodland are being thinned, and a range of new native saplings will be planted to encourage healthier regeneration.

2. The clearance of non-native poplars is being carried out to restore dune heath habitat — not to create space for a new car park.

3. A bat survey was undertaken, and the area was deemed unsuitable for roosting as the trees lacked natural crevices.

4. The use of heavy machinery was the most financially viable option for carrying out the work safely and efficiently.

The National Trust says it welcomes public questions and encourages anyone with concerns to contact their team directly for information about the project.

Divided Views in the Community

Some residents remain sceptical, saying previous conservation work in the area has led to visible habitat loss and that the once-quiet pine woods are now busier and noisier than ever. They believe the red squirrels have become increasingly scarce due to visitor pressure and reduced woodland cover.

Others, however, argue that the dune landscape has always been a shifting, changing environment and that managing it for rare dune species is essential. They point out that the coastline is internationally recognised for its biodiversity and must be maintained through scientific management, even if the results are stark at first.

Balancing Nature and Public Use

The debate highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing conservation, visitor access, and emotional attachment to the landscape. What looks like destruction to some may, in time, be viewed as renewal by others.

Formby Bubble will continue to follow this story as the work progresses and welcomes respectful discussion from residents who wish to share their views or experiences of the site.