Several trees in Swindon have been cut down recently by the council after complaints were made by a member of the public.

Two of these trees can be located in the alleyway beside the entrance to St Marks Recreation Ground in Gorse Hill after concerns over access to the pathway.

Both trees have been severely cut back, almost halving in size and this change has been enacted after members of the public contacted the council.

A Swindon Borough Council spokesperson said: “These trees at St Mark's Recreation Ground were recently cut back in order to make them safe and allow access through the alleyway.

“There is no further work planned in this area at this time.”

Swindon Advertiser: The alteration was made after members of the public complained to the council about footbath

SBC are responsible for trees above 2m in height whereas the Parish Council manage those below that height in the area.

Gorse Hill Parish Councillor Dave Patey said: "The trees have been pruned back more than I would have liked.  I hope they will grow back in time."

A Central Swindon North Parish Council spokesperson said: “The Parish Council tree policy outlines our commitment to maintaining and enhancing tree canopy cover across the Parish Council area.

“We expect only trees which are diseased or where access or safety may be comprised to be removed.

“In this instance, we understand works were requested to Swindon Borough Council by a member of the public after access to the footpath was restricted by heavy foliage. 

“We’ve been advised that the trees should have been trimmed so they will grow back, not removed.”

You can report a tree that needs maintenance to Swindon Borough Council here.