Broughty Ferry tree vandals slammed by councillors

Council bosses are considering involving police after a string of new trees were vandalised in Broughty Ferry.

Twenty trees at Balmossie have been hacked back in what is suspected was a premeditated attack.

The negenia sycamores sparked controversy when they were planted in the summer, with nearby residents complaining it would block their view of the Tay. As a result, the local authority agreed to remove half of them.

It is now thought the sycamores could die as a result of the excessive pruning.

Only the trees that run parallel to Bridge Lane and Collingwood Street were targeted. Ones nearer Collingwood Crescent were not.

Mark Flynn, deputy convener of Dundee City Council’s city development committee, said: “While we have no idea who carried out this vandalism, the fact that they brought with them proper gardening equipment and only removed those branches that were growing outwards from the main stem seems to suggest it was a premeditated action.

“The trees were planted along the beachfront to soften and naturalise some of the flood protection works.”

Councillor Anne Rendall, the council’s tree champion, said: “Aside from the £7,000 in public money that these trees cost to buy and plant, they enhance the environment for everyone, increase biodiversity and make Dundee an attractive and accessible place to live.

“It is sad and frustrating these eco-positive views are not shared by everyone in our communities.”

Local residents said the damage was done several weeks ago.