Tree Clearance at 43 Bushby’s Lane: Executors Share Full Background After Community Concern

The Executors of the late Sylvia Kershaw’s estate have contacted Formby Bubble to provide a full statement regarding the recent and widely discussed tree clearance at 43 Bushby’s Lane, Formby.

The site, which has now been listed for sale with offers over £1 million, has generated significant attention locally following the removal of mature trees and vegetation. Community members have expressed concern about the visual impact and future plans for the land.

In response, the Executors have issued a detailed explanation in hopes of clarifying the facts, correcting what they describe as “misconceptions,” and sharing Sylvia Kershaw’s original intentions for the plot.

Why Were the Trees Removed?

The decision to clear the site was, according to the Executors, not financially driven but based on urgent safety concerns backed by a professional tree risk assessment.

In November 2023, an inspection concluded that many of the trees—especially fast-growing Leylandii—had become dangerously overgrown, with shallow root systems in sandy soil rendering them structurally unstable.

This concern was tragically confirmed when a large tree branch fell during a storm in August 2024, landing on the roof of a nearby home on Limetree Way. Fortunately, no one was injured, but the incident highlighted the potential for serious harm.

Initial efforts were made to reduce tree height as a temporary solution, but this left behind dead trunks with little ecological or visual benefit. On expert advice—and only after proper environmental and biodiversity surveys were carried out—the full clearance went ahead, with a qualified ecologist on site throughout.

A Plan for Responsible Redevelopment:

The Executors emphasise that the clearance was a necessary and lawful action carried out under professional guidance. In line with planning requirements, any future redevelopment will include:

• Native species replanting

• A minimum 10% biodiversity net gain

• Preservation of the existing mature tree screen along the site’s frontage

Importantly, the Executors shared that Sylvia Kershaw herself had instructed an experienced local architect to draw up sensitive redevelopment plans prior to her passing, reflecting her wish for the land to be improved and thoughtfully developed.

Addressing Community Concerns:

The Executors acknowledge the strong local reaction, especially on social media, and have reiterated the following:

• All work was carried out lawfully with professional oversight

• The clearance was rooted in genuine safety concerns, not profit

• Merseyside Police have reviewed the matter and confirmed no further investigation

While they understand that not everyone will agree with the outcome, they believe it’s important for the community to have access to factual information, rather than relying on speculation.

The Site Is Now For Sale:

Following the clearance and in line with Sylvia Kershaw’s wishes, 43 Bushby’s Lane is now on the market, with offers invited in excess of £1 million. The listing is expected to attract interest from developers and individuals committed to continuing a responsible approach to the site’s future.

A Note from Formby Bubble:

We thank the Executors for taking the time to provide a full and transparent account of the events at 43 Bushby’s Lane. We recognise the depth of feeling within the community and hope this background helps offer some clarity.

Formby Bubble will continue to monitor developments and will share any future updates regarding the site as they emerge.