Council’s actions in trees saga were ‘serious and sustained’ leadership failure

The Council set up an independent tree panel to find a compromise on tree replacement. However, the panel and public were misled, leading to a loss of trust. Despite legal challenges, the Council maintained its stance, rejecting recommendations and failing to amend contracts. An inquiry found leadership failures and poor communication further eroded trust. By 2018, pressure from various stakeholders led to a change in approach, pausing the tree replacement program.

What was the initial purpose of setting up the independent tree panel?

• To find a compromise and build public support

• To enforce strict environmental laws

• To increase tree removal

• To reduce council expenses

What was the outcome of the judicial review sought by campaigners in 2016?

• The independent tree panel was disbanded

• The Council was found to be acting unlawfully

• The Council was not acting unlawfully

• The tree replacement program was permanently halted

What was a major consequence of the High Court ruling for the Council?

• It softened its stance towards campaigners

• It sought immediate reconciliation with campaigners

• It felt validated and hardened its position

• It decided to halt the tree replacement program

Who was ultimately responsible for the Council's strategic leadership failure?

• The independent tree panel

• The senior officers

• The campaigners

• The political leadership, including the Council leader

How did the Council's approach to public communication affect public trust?

• It improved transparency and trust

• It had no effect on public trust

• It eroded public trust due to lack of transparency

• It strengthened public support for the tree replacement program

What led to the Council changing its approach in 2018?

• A new independent tree panel

• A combination of factors including health and safety concerns

• Increased public support

• Successful tree replacement

What was Amy's role in the change of approach in 2018?

• They continued the tree replacement program

• They paused the tree replacement program

• They increased tree removal efforts

• They ignored health and safety concerns