REGARDING your article (LET, June 8) about trees being axed at a Blackburn primary school which my child attends. Without question I consider a safe environment for the children to be of highest priority.

Also, I feel secure that my child attends a school with such high standards of safety precautions.

However, I would point out that dangerous branches can be lopped and a tree left standing.

If the trees were in a dangerous condition, then did the council allow them to develop into this state?

Surely, prevention is far better than the 'axe,' not only for the tree, but also wildlife and the general environment.

In the Longshaw and Highercroft area of Blackburn too many trees are hacked down, greenery destroyed.

Always, it is suggested that the trees are diseased or considered unsafe and in a short space of time are replaced with houses or building extensions.

Some years ago trees, which the council said showed signs of disease, were felled on certain roads in the area.

Although, residents were told they would be replaced with young ones, none were on most of these roads.

Y RILEY, Pilmuir Road, Blackburn.