Residents in Etxebarri have expressed their concern and frustration regarding the felling of trees as part of the construction works for the new cycle path in the municipality. The works, which commenced on March 16, have led to the removal of a dozen trees, causing unease among the local community.
“"It was so beautiful here, for the children and for those of us who walk around, and now they are taking away our trees, we don't think it's right."
Enrique Frías, a lifelong resident of the municipality, believes that a better study could have been conducted to avoid reaching this point. While he supports the creation of the cycle path as an alternative mode of transport, he suggests it could have been built elsewhere to prevent the destruction of the park.
The Town Hall has explained that the decision to remove the trees instead of transplanting them is based on technical studies indicating that the trees would not survive relocation. Consequently, the Etxebarri Town Hall has committed to replanting a greater number of trees than those felled, replacing them with native species suitable for the environment. The Town Hall has also expressed regret for the impact and discomfort caused to citizens by this action.
“"It's not pleasant to cut down trees, but if there was no other option and it's done with balance, I think it's fine."
The Town Hall has emphasized the value of this project, stating that the cycle path is not an isolated action but part of a broader plan to reduce motorized traffic, polluting emissions, and noise, promoting healthy and accessible means of transport. The new route will not only connect with Basauri and Bolueta but will also link with the Bizkaia Provincial Council's cycle path network, achieving connection with the rest of the Bizkaia territory, allowing cyclists to reach places like Erandio and Las Arenas.
