Posters were put up around the area to ask what people think about removing the trees, after concerns were raised that they could affect the new towpath surface and cause problems for canal users in future.
We received a wide range of responses both for and against the plans, and for the time being have decided to monitor the growth of the trees instead of taking them out.
Laura Mullholland, ecologist at the Trust, said: "We were overwhelmed by the huge range of responses we got to this plan, both from people who thought it was the right thing to do, and from those who would be sad to see the trees go. We only ever remove trees when there's a really good reason to, and have decided that in this case we can leave them be for the time being.
"It's been great to see people from the local community show such concern for the environment. We're currently in the process of planting up Jubilee Woodland, which is just by Caen Hill Locks, with thousands of trees, so we're really hoping that lots of people will be up for giving us a hand. If you're interested in getting involved, please do get in touch."
Our Kennet & Avon waterway partnership will also be holding an open meeting this week for people to discuss the canal. It will take place on September 15 at The Wharf, Devizes between 4pm and 8pm, and will include the launch of the Trust's new welcome boat The Admiral as well as a light buffet, family activities and the opportunity to speak to people from around the Trust.
