Why are 7,000 people fighting to save 'royal' lime trees?
BBCThousands of people have signed a petition to save lime trees from being cut down in their part of Lancashire.
The trees on Victoria Road in Walton-le-Dale, Preston, were planted more than a century ago.
The Environment Agency (EA) is proposing to fell 18 of the 21 trees on Victoria Road.
While the plans have been approved by South Ribble Borough Council, campaigners have applied to seek permission for a judicial review.
What is so important about 'royal' limes?
The 'royal' limes line the River Ribble opposite the Yew Tree Pub in Walton-le-Dale.
They were planted in 1912 to commemorate the coronation of King George V.
John Hull, one of the campaigners fighting to save them, explained: "The trees form part of the heritage of the area - they are part of Walton‑le‑Dale's identity and part of our landscape.
"There are of historical importance and they are known locally [and] affectionately as the royal limes or the 21 gun salute."
Why does the EA want to fell them?
It wants to cut the trees down to make way for flood defences as part of the multi-million pound Preston & South Ribble Flood Risk Management Scheme.
It said due to the density and spread of the limes' root systems and their proximity to the required working area, it was not feasible to retain them.
It added: "We understand the strength of feeling for these trees from the community and we've taken 180 cuttings to grow at a nursery and replant in the area."
Is there no alternative?
The EA said no other option was "financially viable".
"Our priority is protecting hundreds of Walton-le-Dale homes and businesses from the devastating effects of flooding and felling trees is always our last resort," it said.
"We can't carry out construction from within the River Ribble due to the risk of causing environmental harm to the river, its wildlife, and the surrounding land.
"Relocating the works further inland is also not feasible, as the road carries essential utilities and regionally significant communications cables."
Guy Shackleton, of Save the Royal Limes Action Group, said it believed there were alternatives that would "protect the trees and the ecological benefit of them".
He added it would also prevent 18 months of "complete road closure".
Shackleton said: "We have engaged... with consultant civil engineers and they have a strong belief there are alternatives that yes, could well incur costs but would prevent the destruction and removal of the trees."
When is the work due to take place?
It has not yet been scheduled.
The plans were approved by South Ribble Borough Council but campaigners have applied to seek a judicial review of the local authority's decision.
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