BUSINESSMAN Jeremy Tyrrell has been given permission to fell nine protected trees at Ely s Cathedral Marina. The seven Poplar trees and two Horse Chestnuts have been found to be diseased and dying and there are fears falling branches could pose a risk to

BUSINESSMAN Jeremy Tyrrell has been given permission to fell nine protected trees at Ely's Cathedral Marina.

The seven Poplar trees and two Horse Chestnuts have been found to be diseased and dying and there are fears falling branches could pose a risk to people, boats and property.

They will be cut down and replaced under a one-for-one planting scheme over the next two years.

Mr Tyrrell, who runs Ely Marine, was granted permission by East Cambridgeshire District Council to fell the trees which are protected by a conservation order.

The move is part of a five-year programme of maintenance planned at Cathedral Marina.

David Archer, East Cambridgeshire District Council's development director, said: "Our tree officer, Cathy White, has given careful consideration to the tree survey report and recommendations from various experts and it is with regret that these trees have to be removed.

"New trees will be planted to replace them during the winter planting season directly after the trees are felled. As part of the plans, the replacement trees will be indigenous to the area and the scheme aims to create a pleasant environment for the Ely Riverside."

The Poplar trees have been attacked for several years by the larvae of a moth that lives and matures in the tree trunks weakening their structures

The Horse Chestnut trees have been attacked by a fungus which has left large areas of loose, dead bark.

In both cases there is a risk of heavy branches falling from the trees.

A spokesman for Ely Marine said: "We have agreed a long-term tree maintenance programme with ECDC for Cathedral Marina which covers felling, pruning and shaping, and replanting.

"The pruning and shaping work is ongoing, the felling is mainly in this year.

"The replanting will allow much more suitable and attractive species to be aesthetically placed to enhance the visual and functional aspects of the site.

"Although some of the wood will be chipped or burnt, in the main the wood will be used for habitat creation and seating at Roswell Pit.