CONCERNED residents and councillors are pleading for a group of mature trees on the grounds of a former college to be protected for years to come.

An application for a preservation order has been submitted to Southend Council calling for the trees, on the site of the former Futures Community College, in Southchurch Boulevard, to be protected.

The land had previously been earmarked for a homes development and the resident has submitted the application to ensure that any future development would not impact the “decade old” trees.

The three Southchurch ward councillors have supported the application as they believe the site would be prime for new homes as long as the trees are protected.

Colin Campbell, Conservative councillor responsible for Southchurch ward, said: “We fully support saving trees where they do not have an adverse effect on the community.

“This is why the Conservative Group brought forward a motion to full council to plant trees for registered newborns and, sadly, babies that do not survive birth.

“This site on the Boulevard has been a priority for me, councillor Darryl Jones, and councillor Daniel Nelson, for quite some time.

“Nothing has developed, it is a wasteland, and it is affecting local residents. We would love to see it fully developed and provide homes we need; however, it must protect the environment and community when doing so.

“It is very easy to access this site without damaging any of the existing trees, and as the ward councillors we will be supporting protecting this flora heritage.”

The site of the old Futures Community College was previously earmarked for a large homes development. However, in August 2023, it was revealed these plans have been shelved.

Within the application, the resident states: “The trees in question are notably mature, with some estimated to be several decades old. Their age not only signifies their historical importance but also their role in the local ecosystem.

“These trees have long provided aesthetic beauty, environmental benefits, and a sense of continuity to the community. They serve as essential habitats for various species of birds and other wildlife, contributing to biodiversity and the ecological health of our area.

“A Tree Preservation Order would ensure any future developments take into account the preservation and integration of these trees into the planning process, maintaining the natural heritage and beauty of our area.”