THE tree at the site of two triple-fatality car accidents on the A6135 has finally been axed.
It was cut down on Monday following more than 30 years of complaints and campaigns about road safety issues between Hood Hill and Hoyland Common.
Cynthia Shaw, chairman of the A6135 Accident Reduction Group, said: "Anything that stops the carnage, death and destruction must be applauded. It's been horrendous."
Cynthia sent her first letter to the council in 1978.
The most recent fatalities were in May 2008, when a car lost control on the bend by the turning to Coach Road and hit the tree. Three teenagers were killed.
The tree's removal was one of three measures recommended by Sheffield coroner Chris Dorries to prevent further deaths. He also suggested installing a speed camera and elongating the crash barrier.
A council spokesman said: "We fully understand the sensitivities regarding the tree and its location, particularly on the part of bereaved family members, as well as local pressure groups. After due consideration, the council’s chief executive wrote to the coroner and confirmed that the tree would be removed."
The spokesman also said the council and the police would undertake a road safety review of the A6135 this financial year. He added: "This would highlight if any further road safety improvements might be appropriate."
