Trees cut in safety’ move

COMMUTERS in Littleport are furious after mature ash trees at the railway station were decimated by the rail company. Twenty trees have been reduced to stumps at the fringes of the station after contractors for Network Rail moved in on Monday. Michael

COMMUTERS in Littleport are furious after mature ash trees at the railway station were "decimated" by the rail company.

Twenty trees have been reduced to stumps at the fringes of the station after contractors for Network Rail moved in on Monday.

Michael Edwards, pictured, who uses the station regularly on business, says he has spoken to dozens of commuters and residents who are "livid" about the work.

He has also complained to Network Rail.

"The approach was a very pleasant grove with mature ash trees, but instead we have devastated banks and wood chippings - it has ruined the station," he said.

"The strange thing is that Network Rail has just received an award for its environmentally friendly treatment of its stations - this kind of action would seem out of keeping with this policy," he said.

A spokeman from Network Rail said the work was carried out to protect passengers.

"The tree clearance work at Littleport Station was essential because the trees are obstructing the overhead line equipment," he said.

"At least one tree has recently blown down on to the overhead line equipment during the recent bad weather so we are removing some trees to protect the safety of passengers.

"While the safety of the railway is our first priority, we are also keen to protect the local environment so during any work of this nature we work carefully to minimise the damage and disruption caused to the local environment.