THE LONG-RUNNING saga over Pershore’s Broad Street trees has descended into farce after trees which replaced the London Plane species were removed.
Red-faced county council chiefs were forced to replace the 18 crab apple trees – which were only planted last month – after it was discovered suppliers had provided the wrong species.
It’s the latest twist to an increasingly bizarre saga which appeared to come to an end when the London Plane trees were given the chop after their roots began to force up block paving which created a tripping hazard for pedestrians.
The controversial decision to fell the iconic trees was made last year by Worcestershire County Council following a public consultation.
However, despite asking the public for their views, campaigners led by local resident Shirley Agg branded the consultation a ‘complete farce’.
Council chiefs claimed the crab apple tree replacements would need less maintenance compared to their predecessors and will save tax payers money.
A Worcestershire County Council spokesperson said: “The trees on Broad Street in Pershore have been replaced today in order to put right a supplier error.
“Unfortunately the supplier provided the wrong species of tree for planting and this only recently became apparent once the leaves began to appear.
“As soon as we were made aware of the mistake the trees were replaced to make sure that we have the best trees for the town centre.
“All of the costs associated with planting and replanting are being paid by the supplier,” the spokesperson added.
