Market Drayton trees face axe to improve TV signal

Towering trees in a Shropshire town centre could be felled - following complaints from residents they are blocking out light and affecting TV signals.

Plans have been submitted to cut down two London plane trees outside the library in Cheshire Street, Market Drayton, and replace them with "more suitable" species that do not grow as tall.

In a supporting statement Shropshire Council, behind the plans, says: "A recent survey of trees planted within Market Drayton town centre has given consideration to a range of issues.

"In recent years the continuing growth of the two plane tress adjacent to the library on the frontage with Cheshire Street has resulted in a range of health and safety concerns.

"There have been complaints about the lack of light and TV signals to adjacent residential properties and the tree canopies also block the view for the CCTV system along the main thoroughfare of the town.

"Furthermore, the roots of the trees are also causing disturbance to adjacent paving slabs."

Brian Jones, Market Drayton resident, said: "The removal of trees can be a delicate subject as they are God's own creation.

"I can understand people being upset if they are over-powering and causing difficulties with light and loss of TV signal.

"But if they are to come down then I only hope they are replaced."

Councillor Roger Smith, mayor of Market Drayton, said: "At town council level I am not aware of there being a problem with the trees and I would need to see the planning application before making any judgment."