NEWLY-planted trees in Pinehurst field have sparked a row after they were planted before full permission was granted.

Led by chairman Steve Thompson, Hreod Burna Urban Forest put 1,000 trees on land between Cricklade Road and Pinehurst Road in December.

David Harbron: “It’s such a shame that trees don’t do anything useful like you know provide oxygen. But yes, let’s complain about losing a small amount of green space.”

Daniel Adams: “I think everyone can agree that planting trees is a good thing, but you can’t just plant them wherever you want and whenever you want. Why didn’t they just wait for permission?”

Sarah Hext: “The trees should stay! Yes, okay he did jump the gun, but no-one uses that field for sport as it’s so wet down there, the trees will help the environment and be far more beneficial. Not only that there is such a huge range of wildlife in this area now due to the urban forest.

“We have owls, deer and loads of different types of birds! Leave the trees there!”

David Gartside: “They should have had permission. But leave the trees alone. What would you prefer? More concrete buildings?”

Andy Reeves: “Parish councillors voted to retain the trees as they are.

“More planning is needed to make sure the remaining ones are in the right places. This is to ensure a balance of grass/trees.

“The parish council supports trees and has an adopted Tree Planting Policy on the website.”

Helen McGovern: “I am all for helping the environment and trees, but not there, the field next to it was not cut once by the council last year and is un-used space.

“That field in the summer is where the kiddies have a kick about , saw people having picnics last year.

“I walk my dog there every day. Yes, there is a part that waterlogs which will not grow a tree on.

“The gas line runs through there which one day may need digging up but how would you get the diggers and machinery down if there’s tree there.”

Daniel Woodward: “Personally, I think it’s a good idea. Fair enough, he should have got permission but surely it’s good for the planet.”

Manda Thackray: “Soon they will be moaning if houses went up instead of trees... can’t win with some people!”

Lee Collie: “Yes, Steve jumped the gun however let wait and see why the parish council decide before pulling the trees up.

“So many good people turned up to plant them, never mind the cost of the trees!”

Flora Wilkins: “As someone who grew-up in Gorse Hill, I think it is marvellous that this wonderful small group is working so hard to improve the environment.

“Trees bring oxygen to us all and the more of them the better.”

Myla Collings: “Some people would prefer to see nature wiped out completely.”

John Lister: “I can’t see what’s wrong with the planting of trees.”