Trees that were removed for a tidal flood prevention scheme in South Belfast are to be replanted at another location.
Last year the Department for Infrastructure removed a number of trees along the River Lagan in Stranmillis to install a flood prevention scheme in the area, which sparked an outcry from local residents.
As part of the works trees at a path beside Governor's Bridge were taken away, along with a hedgerow on Lockview Road that provided a home to a sparrow population.
Read more: Concern over 'flooding at flood alleviation scheme' in South Belfast
Representatives from DfI met with a group of residents and local politicians to discuss their concerns regarding their removal and whether or not they would be replaced in the area.
Concerns were also raised regarding recent flooding at the bridge and whether or not the removal of the trees had an impact on this, with the department representatives saying that a "ball causing a blockage in a pump" had caused the problem.
At the meeting, residents were told that trees would not be returning to the path at Stranmillis and would instead be planted close to the Lagan Gateway Bridge, while the hedgerow that was removed could be replaced along the length of the new wall that has been installed.
There was disappointment that the trees would not be returning to their original location, however, residents were pleased with the engagement from DfI and the proposals for new trees to be planted.
Botanic Green Party councillor Aine Groogan said: "While we cannot undo the damage done last year by the removal of the mature trees and hedgerows that were a sanctuary for wildlife & biodiversity in the area, there is now an opportunity for the Department for Infrastructure to begin building back some of the trust that was lost by embarking on a substantial replanting scheme.
"It's important that the replanting plans central best practice around native species and encouraging biodiversity, but I hope the Department also take on board the views of the local community in terms of what they would like to see come forward as well.
"I appreciate the Department taking the time last week to meet with local residents and reps, there was a robust exchange of views at it and that just shows the strength of feeling around this issue. People are still rightly hurt and upset by the loss of nature in their community and they want to see all steps taken to put it back as far as possible and to lessen the visual impact of the flood defences as well.
"I hope the Department take those views on board and will continue to work with us all to achieve a mutually acceptable replanting scheme.
Moreover, I hope they have learnt their lesson here- people will not sit idly by and let trees be destroyed, and they must do better in this climate and biodiversity emergency, regardless of what our outdated policies and procedures say. They have a moral and legal imperative to do better for people and for the planet."
Botanic SDLP councillor Gary McKeown said: "Residents of South Belfast and beyond were heartbroken when trees and hedges were removed around Stranmillis to make way for the flood defence programme. That is why it is essential that work to plant new trees and transplant hedging in the area is pushed to the maximum extent.
"We had beautiful trees at various points along the waterfront, many of which are now gone, and while we sadly can't get them back, we owe it to future generations to do what we can to ensure every effort is put into creating new and sustainable habitats in the area.
"In my view, this needs to be approached from a 'can do' perspective where all options are on the table, rather than looking for reasons why things can't be done.
"Local residents have been the driving force behind protecting and enhancing what remains, bringing expertise and energy, and we will continue to keep up efforts to help ensure that the Department for Infrastructure delivers for the environment and the community."
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