Trees are not just for the well-heeled (From Messenger Newspapers)

Trees are not just for the well-heeled

11:27am Monday 30th April 2012 in Your Letters

I AM writing in support of the letter by Larry Wilson (April 12). While I don’t know the specifics of that case, the principle that trees which are removed should be replaced should surely be adhered to by the council.

Deciduous trees allow an invaluable link to the annual cycle of nature for our children.

Furthermore, there is growing evidence, much of it published in eminent journals, that promoting greenery in residential areas can have significant benefits in terms of their effect on respiratory diseases, mental health, obesity levels – and general well-being. Then there are the very many ecological benefits.

In my opinion the Trafford gardens department generally do a great job in enhancing the greenery in our borough.

There are compelling reasons why their efforts should be equally concentrated on replacing removed trees – albeit I understand this might sometimes require a smaller species if the previous trees were too large. Indeed, there are good reasons to suggest there should be an increase in the number of appropriately sized trees in the area – and that in future this should inform local public health strategies.

The ultimate danger otherwise is that Trafford will be left mainly with leafy enclaves in the south of the borough.

It should not just be the well-heeled who have access to the benefits of tree-lined streets.

Roger Gamon, Urmston, (address supplied)