TREES that are damaging residents' property in St John's are to be cut back if a planning application is accepted.

The Lime Trees, in Broadway Grove, have reportedly become overgrown and as well as causing damage to property, are interfering with phone lines and ruining the street scene.

St John's county councillor, Richard Udall, has been working with residents to tackle the problem and has secured agreement that a planning application will be submitted to Worcester City Council to cut back 28 tress, and for pollarding to take place.

Cllr Udall said: "Lime Trees are inappropriate as street trees and would not be used today. Many residents have told me the trees have created so much shade that people’s homes have become dark during the day.

"Dust and pollen falls from them and they cause damage to property and cars, they are interfering with telephone cables and in places branches are touching the houses.

"Residents have had enough; I am pleased that we have gained agreement to cut them back and to improve the lives of residents and it will also help with the condition of the trees”.

The Lime Trees, which were planted in the 1930's, are protected by a Tree Preservation Order, and cannot be removed or replaced without permission.

It is because of the Tree Preservation Order that planning permission must be obtained.

Cllr Udall said: “I hope the planning application will not cause problems and will not be objected to, the work needs to take place to improve the quality of life for local residents.

"It will not harm the trees and it would significantly improve the street scene”.

It is hoped the work will commence during the autumn.