The re-wilding of North Somerset began in February 2020 with hundreds of tree saplings being planted across the district.

But not everyone is happy with loss of green space or potential loss of views.

Roger Smallshaw, of Redwood Close, is especially upset about the latest re-wilding on the corner of Nailsea Park and Blackthorn Way.

He said: “Unlike Clevedon and Portishead residents whose fortunate residents were granted a consultation, discussion and negotiation with the council resulting in a fairly decisive reduction to the scale of their plantings we did not get that opportunity and ended up with planting on an industrial scale!”

And Nailsea Town Council chairman Jan Barber said she has received several complaints about the tree planting.

Mrs Barber said: “The complaints mainly about the proximity of the tree whips* to each other and the type of trees being planted. 

“I am concerned that the future maintenance is well-funded to ensure that the weaker trees are removed to allow the stronger ones to have adequate room to grow. 

“There will be a lot of work required to make sure that any brambles are frequently removed, so that those using these areas are able to walk freely. 

“I should like to see paths are established through the wild areas and these are kept clear so that the public can really enjoy walking through nature. 

“Are volunteers going to be expected to take on this task or will North Somerset make sure sufficient budget is allocated?”

Back at the beginning of 2020 in Backwell, Nailsea and Wraxall, starting at Pound Lane, Trendlewood and in the fields at the end of Sedgemoor Close, council officials and the community came together to plant more than 1,000 young trees.

More saplings went in at Rhyne View and Elm Farm.

Despite the wind and rain the tiny shoots encased in protection sleeves went in the waterlogged ground although since this planting vandals have uprooted many of the saplings.

Rewilding involves creating more habitats for wildlife to flourish, increase biodiversity and help mitigate the effects of climate change.

Last year North Somerset Council agreed to rewild as much of its land as possible.

The aim is to plant 25 hectares of woodland – about 50,000 trees – and grow about 40 hectares of tall grass, reducing the areas of regularly mown grass by 25 per cent.

North Somerset Council executive member for climate emergency and the environment and Backwell ward councillor Bridget Petty is promoting the scheme.

Mrs Petty said: “This has been done in response to a climate emergency to protect for future generations.”

However, when the country went into lockdown a halt was called on the community helping with the planting in line with national guidelines.

North Somerset Council said it will be creating new wildlife habitats including in some 2.5 million square metres of amenity of grass in parks, verges and open spaces it owns.

And it maintains: “We are not rewilding to save money – we are doing it to enhance the benefits of our natural environment for our residents and wildlife.”

In a consultation about its plans much of its 500+ responses were supportive towards the project.

North Somerset Council isn’t the only organisation re-wilding urban and rural areas.

Within minutes of a link to this article being put on Nailsea People Facebook page is reached more than 1,000 readers.
Andy Johnson said: "I know I am going to be joining the Nailsea Moaners here but where I think adding trees to the area is a lovely idea, I really do not understand why they have been laid out like that in this green space and also on top of where there once was mineshafts."
Adele Filer said: "Sadly many of the trees have already been destroyed."
Mick Graham said: "It will ultimately block motorists views at the road junction."
Andy Johnson added: "I have to say that was my first thought. 
"It is a tricky junction at best."
Beth Connock said: "North Somerset were given 6K trees but have no idea what they are. 
"There was no public consultation and they have been planted in random places.
"I’m happy with trees but why in gods name have they been planted in straight lines, blocking access to the bridleway and looking like a war grave as in the Sedgemoor Close field. 
"If it’s anything like last time they’ll all be dead this time next year because the council don’t take care of them. 
"My own theory is Clevedon got up a petition to prevent them being planted in Ladye Bay so we got them."
Faith Moulin said: "What a shame they are all in rows! 
"It will never look natural. 
"Nature doesn’t plant in rows, or use weed killer, or plastic tubes. 
"It could have been designed with groups of trees and open spaces to suit everyone and relaxed management to suit nature."
Yvonne Bate shared the photo of Morgan's Hill.
She said: "Surely the planting didn’t need to completely dominate the lovely space , which is enjoyed by many."
And Patricia Adams said: "I do question the manner of planting in tight rows - it will require a huge amount of management and ensures that many of the saplings are destined to fail. 
"My biggest question is why have so many been planted on the field off Sedgemore Close where, sadly, house building is intended as part of the hideous expansion of Nailsea? 
"What a pitiful waste."