Tree-planting criticised

Why yet again is Hamilton council using secondrate contractors to replace our street trees? Surely this is a job for council staff, but yet again they farm out the work.

And the ones that are doing the work are more interested in smoking, making a mess on our streets and doing an improper job of planting.

If these cowboys spent less time on breaks and more time working, it would get done.They look so untidy and unprofessional.

Come on, Hamilton council, have a look at what contractors you are using

Jake Houston, Hamilton

Council responds: The council uses contractors to deliver a significant work programme, including numerous tree-planting sites across the city.

We have agreed methodology and planting specification for our contractor to work to, and we have chosen not to use a mechanical digger – lowering the cost to the council, removing a potential disturbance for residents and passers-by, and ensuring a smaller and cleaner planting site at each location.

We’ve had some very positive feedback from residents on the work this contractor is undertaking. Mr Houston’s made the only complaint we’re aware of. When the work is concluded, we will review how it’s gone.

Maria Barrie, council parks and recreation manager