Plans to remove 'unsafe' trees near river

Around 150 trees and shrubs have been planted in the nearby River Len Local Nature Reserve

Plans are in place for the removal of up to 10 poplar trees on the River Len which have been deemed unsafe.

Maidstone Borough Council said the trees to be felled are near the entrance of Square Hill Road in the town's east.

The local authority said it has monitored the trees for some time and found they lift out of the ground in high winds, risking public safety.

Cllr Clive English, cabinet member for environmental services, said: “It is always very sad when we have to take down any trees, however the safety of our residents has to be our top priority."

The wood from the felled trees will be used to create a hibernaculum, a form of shelter where animals can hibernate during the winter, he added.

The council said the removal would take place after the nesting period finishes and contractors would look for bats before felling took place.

Work is due to start at the end of August.