Council admits Cherry Tree error

Councillor Jacqui Beswick

A senior council officer has admitted the department should have consulted Heywood Township over the contested removal of the cherry trees along West Starkey Street, Heywood.

Peter Jackson, sport, leisure and culture lead officer admitted in a letter to Councillor Jacqui Beswick after she requested a formal response from the department.

The letter said: "With hindsight, the adverse public reaction to the removal of the trees and hedge might have been anticipated and it would have been wise to alert members."

The trees were removed because falling blossom would have caused a hazard and the rapid deterioration of the new artificial turf. It has subsequently been revealved that due to 15 years of growth, the roots would have to be removed.

Cllr Beswick said: "We wanted it confirming that no members of Heywood Township were consulted in any way. We don't want this to become a political issue, we just want to make sure that all the facts are clear - we cannot mislead people on something we don't know about."

Peter Jackson said: "We have acknowledged that the relevant members should have been consulted on the work to remove the trees. The work was carried out to protect the new pitch surface. Leaves and blossom from the trees would seriously impair the performance of the pitch, and the bushes acted as a litter trap and a screen in incidents of vandalism or ant social behaviour.

"Once the installation of the replacement pitch and fencing has been completed, options for landscaping of the affected area will be prepared for consultation with Township Members."