Ancient Weston trees to be felled

Ancient trees at Grove Park, Weston-super-Mare will be cut down this winter to let in more sunlight.

Eight of the 16 trees will be felled in order to prolong the lives of the remaining trees. 

The Limes grow in a close avenue along the southern boundary of the park, between the bandstand and the car park. 

As the trees have grown their crowns have become dense and congested, and there is little room for the trees to develop properly. 

Due to this, the area has become very dark and unwelcoming for visitors.

By removing the lowest quality trees in the group and selecting the best ones to remain, the area will become lighter and more pleasant to be in. 

North Somerset Council executive member with responsibility for environment Peter Bryant said: "Grove Park has been a jewel in Weston-super-Mare's crown since it was opened to the public in 1891 and is our only town park that is registered as a park of special historic interest. 

"As such we must manage the trees so that the park remains a beautiful and welcoming place for a further hundred years. 

"It's never nice when we have to remove trees, but the work is part of our overall custodianship of the park. The trees that stay will be able to thrive in the new space we are giving them."

The tree works will be carried out by Glendale Services Ltd, the council's tree surgery contractor.