CONCERN has been voiced over the future of two prominent trees in Accrington town centre.

Oswaldtwistle resident, Dr Ekaterina Solyanko has called on the council to place a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) on two horse chestnuts outside the Market Hall.

MORE TOP STORIES:

She said she ‘was concerned about the future’ of the trees, which she described as ‘splendid’.

Speaking at a recent public ‘Question Time’ event, she asked councillors: “Considering that trees in towns make a very positive contribution to sustainable living, can improve public health whilst also moderating the local impact of climate change, boost wildlife and reinforce the distinctive character of a place, do members consider the trees situated at the front of the Market Hall to be worthy of a TPO?”

Dr Solyanko said she became concerned after reading news of the multi-million pound development of the town centre, as reported in the Lancashire Telegraph.

Council leader Miles Parkinson said the future of the trees would be ‘formally considered’ but stopped short of promising they will remain.

He said: “Once the design work for the creation of the new town square starts in the spring, the council’s tree and woodlands officer will be involved, as we realise these are a prominent feature in the current space.

“There will of course be an opportunity for people to comment on the plans as they take form and we will consider feedback received.

“When plans are finalised, the planning process will formally consider the future of the trees and give another opportunity for members of the public to comment.”

In atown centre conservation area appraisal carried out for the council by Salford firm Paul Butler Associates, the trees were credited with boosting the area.