Sunderland man says a tree outside his shop would cost him business | British News

A man is angry with his local council for planting a tree in front of his shop which he says could lead to him going out of business.

Tully’s, a sewing machine dealer, has been based in Sunderland for more than half a century.

Trees were planted in front of the shop on May 4 as part of a “bus rationalization project” aimed at making the city center more bus-friendly.

But Grant Tully, who runs the store, has urged Sunderland City Council to reconsider the plan.

He says a tall cherry blossom tree – which stands 2.5 meters tall – deters people from entering.

Grant said this will be replaced by a similar young tree, but he is concerned that it will eventually grow as well.

He says the foliage is blocking the signage he recently bought.

Grant said: “When I discussed this with the City Council they originally said the trees could go anywhere and that they were factored into the plans to make the drawings look good. They would later decide where to place the trees.

“But the trees are blocking our signage.” If people can’t see your business, you won’t last long.

“They agreed to replace the trees. But they will replace them with trees of the same species, just younger. A young tree will soon reach the same size. I read that the foliage will be about ten feet in diameter.

“They’re definitely going to get out of control.” I think they could put us out of business.’

In a statement, Sunderland City Council said: “We are aware of Mr Tully’s concerns and are in open dialogue with him.”

“The trees were planted as part of the Holmeside bus rationalization project, construction of which began in November 2022. It is part of a £4.6million initiative to improve the city centre.”

“Trees in cities have been shown to bring many benefits, such as helping to filter pollutants and improving air quality.”

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