Wandsworth Council has called for the protection of a ‘landmark’ grapefruit tree in Battersea.
In a statement, the council confirmed that tree was brought to the UK from Grenada in the 1980s and planted on Queenstown Road in Battersea by resident Marline Anderson.
A local campaign was created after Ms Anderson passed away in June, prompting the council to issue a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) to protect the ‘beloved local landmark’ and preserve the tree in her honour.
According to the council, the TPO is designed to guard trees that ‘make a significant impact on their local surroundings’ and will become permanent based on the outcome of a 28-day consultation process.
A plaque has also been fitted by neighbours to commemorate Marline and displays the following words from her: ‘Kindly refrain from picking from the tree. You are welcome to gather what nature has let fall’.
Kemi Akinola, Deputy Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: ‘We were very pleased to grant the Tree Preservation Order and ensure that this beloved local landmark stands for generations to come. Marline was much-loved by her neighbours and we’re proud to have listened to the wishes of the community.
‘In our year as London Borough of Culture, it’s great to recognise the contribution that people of African and Caribbean heritage have made to Wandsworth.’
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