Tree 'trimming'

This weekend will be the forth in which Network Rail are ‘trimming back’ the trees which run along the side of the rail track near the allotment.  I understand that over hanging branches could be a problem but is it really necessary to make the trees look post apocalyptic?

The real tree devastation project was the fellling of mature trees by the railway line at Welsh Row two years back. Total carnage all for the new Alderley Edge bypass also known as the ‘Monks Heath future gridlock project’ in our house. I have pictures of the felled trees, a chilling vision.