TREES in Broomlands are set to be removed following complaints from residents.

Around 87 trees on North Ayrshire Council land within the area will be removed or pruned by council workers.

Complaints were lodged about trees that were diseased or causing damage to property in Broomlands.

Irvine East Councillor John Easdale has welcomed the work but wants to see similar measures carried out in Bourtreehill.

Councillor Easdale said: “When the original council housing estates of Broomlands and Bourtreehill were built in the mid 1970s, many trees were planted too close to the houses and many were of the wrong type for the environment as some have now grown to three times the size of the houses.

“Added to this was the council’s budget cut backs on pruning over the years.

“I do not know of anyone who does not like the trees. However, when they start causing problems, then there comes a point when residents want some action from the council.

“I am hopeful, after consultations with residents and this work is completed, that the council will expand this project into Bourtreehill and other areas within my ward.”

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council said: “Following the inspection in the Broomlands area, it was clear that a number of trees needed to be removed or pruned. Some were diseased and dying, while others were excessively close to buildings or causing a blind spot on the road. We always seek to plant new trees where appropriate to do so.”