Overgrown trees on Oxlea Grove and Greenfold Lane are to be removed finally. It comes after a long delay to the proposed work, which was first suggested back in 2006.

Many of the trees on the two streets have become so overgrown that footpaths are being uprooted. Residents have also complained about the trees blocking lighting into their homes.

Despite residents’ concerns, it has taken the council months to act on a plan that was suggested last year.

The plans were supported by your Liberal Democrat councillors, but sadly Westhoughton’s Labour and Independent councillors tried to refuse the application at a town council meeting. They were not prepared to take on board the problems faced by residents.

Ward councillor David Wilkinson said:

I’m pleased to report that the council has finally got its act together and will be removing the trees shortly.

The trees that the council has permission to remove on Greenfold Lane are outside the numbers 11, 14, 22, 29, 38 and 39. The trees that the council will remove on Oxlea Grove are outside the even numbers 2, 10, 16, 20, 22 and 24. Trees outside the odd numbers 5 and 15 will also be removed. The work will commence on 29 October and replanting will start in the new year.