Residents have reacted angrily after trees set to grow to 70 foot were planted metres from their homes.

The trees were planted on November 12 on the edge of Raynes Park Sports Pavilion, owned by Raynes Park High School, to the surprise of residents living in Greenview Drive.

Permission was granted in 2009 after Merton Council submitted a planning application on behalf of the school.

The eight trees, four emerald Queen Maples and four Sorbus Aria Lutescens, are expected to grow to up to 70 feet in height.

Residents fear the trees will tower over their homes and block sunlight into their gardens.

Speaking on behalf of residents, Judith Durham, of Greenview Drive, said: "They will unquestionably be invasive in a short period of time, detrimentally affecting both access to light and trespass of branches and root systems onto the properties themselves.

"Moreover, in time these trees will grow taller than the houses and completely block the light."

Residents have since lodged a formal complaint to the council calling for the trees to be removed.

A Merton Council spokesperson said: "We have followed the planning application drawings, but understand the concern raised by some residents in the area, especially those who have moved to the area after planning permission was granted.

"We are reviewing the position of the trees and will move them if that’s what most of the neighbours want."

 

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