Kentish Express Ashford & District
Anger after 21 trees cut down in park
Ashford Borough Council is chopping down high-risk trees in Victoria Park – but the move has been described as “deliberate vandalism” by critics.
Landscaping contractor Aspire started felling 21 trees along Jemmett Road on Monday.
The mixed species – which are either dead, diseased, or are too close to other trees to be able to grow properly – will be replaced in the new year with 13 saplings.
Bosses say it marks the first stage of a long-term planting strategy which will eventually see an avenue of London Planes lining Jemmett Road, returning that part of the park to its former glory.
But Christchurch Road resident Martin Chandler has described the move as “deliberate vandalism”.
In a complaint sent to ABC’s customer care team, he said: “Any reasonable person would intersperse the mature trees with the young London Plane until these had reached maturity and then cut down the older decrepit trees, but what do I know!”
Lower Queens Road resident Danny Goddard agreed, saying he
“has to question the description of the trees”.
The council says the removals are to due to the danger posed to visitors, and paths in the park may be closed while the work is going on.
Among the 21 trees are three ash trees near the building in the park, which have been assessed as high risk when there are strong winds so are being removed for safety reasons.
Cllr Matthew Forest (Con), portfolio holder for culture, tourism and leisure said: “The removal of these trees is part of the long-term plan for Victoria Park.
“The revitalisation project is about introducing historic references to the park, with a traditional Victorian style of tree planting.
“This will support enjoyment of Victoria Park and its trees for many years to come.”
The work comprises part of the Victoria Park revitalisation project, which was awarded £3 million by the National Lottery Heritage Fund last year.
As well as a new dirt track for kids, a new play area and repairs to the Hubert Fountain are also promised in the scheme.
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