CAMPAIGNERS concerned about the removal of trees in south Belfast say they will maintain a constant presence at the site to ensure it is protected.
Several mature trees have already been felled along the Stranmillis embankment with more expected to be removed as part of the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme.
A wall is to be built as part of measures to protect the city from rising tides caused by climate change.
But several residents have expressed anger about the removal of the trees and the loss of natural habitats. They have formed the Save Our Lagan campaign group and say they will "work in shifts" as they protest against the removal.
Earlier this week, fears were sparked that more trees would be felled after a section of the path by Governor's Bridge in Stranmillis was closed by contractors working on the scheme.
There were also concerns that a tree planted by Belfast's first female Lord Mayor Grace Bannister in 1979 would be taken down.
Lisa McKee is among the campaigners and said the group would maintain a presence at the site until issues are resolved.
"We have been asking for a month to have a proper meeting with the minister and chief engineer to outline the concerns that we have with the scheme so that we can go forward with something that is able to protect the environment along the river," she said.
"We are asking for a fully transparent consultation about this work because there seems to have been no thought given to the biodiversity of this area.
"We are planning to stay down here in shifts in order to ensure that none of the trees will be taken down and feel the way this has been handled has been completely unacceptable."
The campaign group have been supported by local politicians, with Sinn Féin MLA Geraldine McAteer and councillor John Gormely joining protestors earlier this week.
Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw also said residents "only want what is best for their area".
A Department for Infrastructure spokeswoman said a meeting was held last week with elected representatives and campaigners "in relation to the need for limited tree clearance works at this location".
"The department’s careful consideration of alternative routes for the flood wall was explained during the meeting and that regretfully the removal of some trees is likely to be necessary to facilitate the construction of this critical infrastructure to protect over 1500 homes and businesses from flooding," she said.
"An assurance was again given this would be kept to an absolute minimum and clearance would only take place when all other viable options for the construction of the flood wall had been exhausted.
"The department had previously engaged an independent arboriculturist to complete a survey of the existing trees during design development of the scheme and has re-engaged the arboriculturist regarding the necessary works proposed at this location to seek their professional input."
She said that the tree planted by Ms Bannister "has not been removed at this time and the department is liaising with the independent arboriculturist".
"If it is necessary to remove this tree to facilitate the construction of the flood wall at this location then it is intended that one of the replacement trees to be planted, as part of this project, is sited close to this location and dedicated to the former Lord Mayor."
