Hundreds of saplings which sprang up through pavements and drains in Stroud Green in Newbury have been chopped down.
Hundreds of saplings that emerged through pavements and drains in Stroud Green, Newbury, have been cut down.
This followed the felling of 56 mature Lombardy poplars by West Berkshire Council last November. These trees had been local landmarks since the 1960s.
Residents near Racecourse Road complained about the saplings sprouting everywhere, prompting the council to take action.
What began as a few shoots quickly turned into a thicket, with new growth breaking through footpaths and drainage covers. The poplars, which had been weakened by recent storms, were deemed to have reached the end of their typical lifespan.
West Berkshire Council launched a public survey earlier this year to decide on replacements for the trees. A spokesperson for the council stated that contractors were tasked with tidying the area and checking local drains. They will continue to manage the shoots to ensure they die back.
Looking ahead, the council is committed to improving the local environment and plans to plant new trees at Stroud Green before the year's end.
Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter
