The City of Florence has begun its campaign to cut down 300 trees deemed dangerous throughout the centre.
Nineteen maritime pine trees are being removed in piazza Stazione, while five elms were cut down yesterday in piazza San Marco. These uprootings follow the elimination of 58 horse chestnuts in viale Corsica, in northern Florence.
City councillor for the environment Alessia Bettini commented, “In piazza della Stazione, the replacement of the 19 pines, 18 of which are in category C [ed. at moderate danger of falling], has a dual purpose: giving uniformity to the layout and making the station’s environs, frequented both day and night, as safe as possible.”
The decision has been met with protests among residents, who have launched a petition on change.org. Over 9,500 people have signed it to date.
