Mystery of the missing trees

Where are our trees? That is the unusual question being asked in a Shropshire town after 50 apparently got lost in the planning process.

Nearly three years ago, phone operator O2 promised the trees to the people of Madeley, Telford, in return for permission to put up a mast there.

Fifty Amelanchiers - enough for a small wood to cover the site of the telecoms station at Woodside Roundabout - were duly delivered to Telford & Wrekin Council.

But they never arrived in Madeley.

The town’s parish council is now speaking out in an effort to track down their missing amelanchiers and get the O2 equipment, along with its security fencing, hidden from view.

Malcolm Morris, deputy council clerk, said: “While ground conditions and drainage problems might make it awkward to plant suitable species, two planting seasons have passed without any work taking place.

“Telford & Wrekin Council seems to have received a generous stock of beautiful trees and not used them for the benefit of the location and local residents affected by the development.

“Despite requests and promises, the council has not given details of its proposals to remedy this.”

Mr Morris said the issue had dragged on for some time. “The site is very conspicuous and is located at the entrance to Madeley and its World Heritage Site/Conservation Area,” he said.

Some shrubs, not including the 50 trees, were planted at the roundabout but failed to grow because of very wet weather.

The borough council said it therefore decided to plant the 50 trees elsewhere - though it has not given the location.

Laura Taylor, borough council spokeswoman, said: “Due to very wet weather, 50 of the trees were deemed unsuitable for planting at that time and were planted elsewhere in Telford.

“One of the council’s environmental maintenance officers has been in talks with Madeley Parish Council to discuss the planting of a more appropriate variety of shrubs at the site.

“This will happen between now and March in line with the new planting season.”