Residents 'horrified' at state of pollarded trees
BBCResidents have hit out at the "savage" cutting back of trees in a process known as pollarding.
Lime trees lining the conservation area of Main Street in Cockermouth had their upper branches removed by Cumberland Council, with the authority saying the work was necessary to improve visibility at the zebra crossing and pavement surface issues.
Margaret Morgan, a retired teacher who has lived in the town for 30 years, said she was appalled as the trees were a feature of the town's Christmas lights display.
"I'm horrified to tell you the truth," she said. "To come down and see the exposed Christmas lights which are still hanging in them where they've been pollarded savagely, it's heartbreaking."
The Labour-led council said it had received reports of a slippery footpath around the trees and it believed the pruning would "assist in reducing this hazard".
But resident Trella Javanainen said she was "quite disappointed" to see the tree branches cut back.
She said: "They look awful and, especially when we're coming to summertime and the town gets really hot, the trees give a nice bit of shelter and a colling effect.
"It seems quite counterproductive to have them pollarded."
Cockermouth and District Civic Trust said it was concerned about the timing of the work which they believed would harm the trees and wildlife.
In a social media post, the organisation said: "Late spring and summer, when there is active growth and sap flow, should be avoided for the health of the tree, potentially causing serious harm.
"The bird nesting season from March until the end of July should also be avoided."
Cumberland Council said specialist tree surgeons had confirmed there were no active nests on the trees before pruning.
A spokesperson said: "While tree work is often associated with the winter months, there are circumstances where it can be carried out during late spring without causing long-term harm.
"Lime trees are tolerant of this type of maintenance, and undertaking works while the trees are in leaf can allow arborists to more effectively assess structure, growth patterns and any potential safety issues."
The council said more extensive work was planned for the winter when the trees were dormant.
"We remain committed to balancing environmental considerations with public safety and will continue to review how works are scheduled and communicated to residents."
