Hi there,
My local council have just planted (1/4/21) two amelanchier Robin Hill along my gable wall. The distance from the tree to the wall is 1 meter and 5 cm. It is London Clay soil. There was no historical trees along this pathway because it is a little narrow. I have pointed out that when the trees mature it will not allow for the passage of a wheelchair or baby pushchair. In addition I am worried about subsidence. One of the trees is planted right in front of the communal drains also. The roots will probably push up the paving stones also and swish against my windows and the side of the house. I just wouldn't plant a tree in my back garden so near the house so I think it is a bit crazy to plant so near on the street.
On that foolish day they also attempted to plant a tree right in front of the alleyway that leads to the back of the houses. One hold could not be dug by hand because it had concrete under the paving from my back garage. On the opposite side they planted the tree but have since removed because they knew it just wouldn't be allowed to block the alleyway for services, fire brigade etc.
I had no notice that they were intending to plant the trees they just came along one morning and were furiously busy planting and when confronted refused to stop and the workmen stated that if they consulted us then nothing would get planted.
I have engaged with the council but they are refusing to listen and have stated that if wheelchairs etc., need to use the pathway they can use the opposite one although the opposite pathway was deemed even narrower than mine for planting the trees.
The trees themselves are cute and cost quite a lot of money. I kind of like them in a way but think they are not being given justice by planting in such a narrow dark place plus they will cause a lot of nuisance because the cars park along this side of the street tightly together so you can't step out onto the road even if walking along.
There is a push to plant loads of trees for the environment it mitigates climate change so they have taken away most of the grants to upgrade homes and are using the planting of trees to meet their quotas instead. Who can argue with trees? Do I need to be concerned about these trees or are they somehow so spindly that they won't cause any harm for walking or damage to property?
Your comments would be appreciated.