Tree delay welcomed

Published: 6 May, 2011

• COUNCILLOR Martin Klute is correct in saying, regarding the plane trees in 

Richmond Avenue, Barnsbury, that “It is by no means certain the trees are the cause of damage” to property (Root of the problem, April 29).

As an architect, Cllr Klute will be aware that tree roots, especially of older trees, can grow under houses and not necessarily be the cause of any problems. 

But that’s not all. According to the independent engineering report carried out on behalf of Islington Council, the damage to the property which is the subject of a claim against the council unless it removes the trees falls within the “very slight” official classification. The report describes “only small movements” to foundations and “some desiccation of the clay” soil. 

So it’s welcome news that Islington’s tree officers have postponed felling the magnificent mature plane trees, valued by the council at more than £100,000, while they meet with residents, whom, it’s hoped, will be seeking an independent assessment of the situation. 

Removing trees can cause “foundation heave”, the opposite problem to subsidence, as the soil swells on recovering moisture following felling. Would the council also then be blamed?

Cllr Klute is to be thanked for challenging the compensation culture which lies behind the tree subsidence claim. 

MEG HOWARTH
Ellington Street, N7