Row as historic Prestwick trees are cut down

Oct 12 2012 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post

A street has “lost its identity” after council chiefs cut down all of its trees.

Marchburn Avenue in Prestwick has been savaged by the drastic move.

And some residents say the decision, which was blamed on “health and safety”, has been a huge over-reaction.

Jenny Johnston has lived on the street for 12 years but says she may now move as a result.

She said: “I actually cried when I watched these huge trees being cut down. To me it’s a criminal act.

“The council says it must do this for safety, but I had the trees independently examined and was told it didn’t have to happen.

“I’ve seen these trees grow with my kids and, strange as it may sound, they mean a lot to some people. Now the street has lost its identity. I’m even thinking about moving house as a result.”

Council bosses insist they acted with public safety in mind because tree roots were causing damage to the pavement.

Executive director Lesley Bloomer said: “The cause of the damage – the tree roots – need to be excavated which means removing the trees.

“Once the trees and all their roots have been removed, the footway will be resurfaced and we will plant alternative trees with a less invasive root system to maintain the look of the local landscape.

“These new trees will be supported by root management systems to ensure they have the best opportunity to grow and flourish within this community, as the existing trees did.

“We have a duty to ensure we keep our streets and communities as safe as possible and this course of action was agreed following two public meetings and consultation with local residents.

“This delivers the best possible outcome, creating a much safer footway while continuing to enjoy a pleasant and attractive local environment.”