THE iconic trees that line the King George V playing field will be pruned next week by Wiltshire Council to help give them a longer and healthier life.
The Lombardy poplar trees had faced the axe completely last year when Wiltshire Council said that they deemed them a risk to public safety.
But the trees were saved following a local campaign and an independent survey by the town council which revealed that the majority of the trees did not need to be felled.
Starting next week, weather permitting, tree surgeon specialists will prune around three or four metres off the 25 trees at the park to prevent old branches falling and to invigorate new growth.
The trees were last cut back around 10 years ago.
Bridget Wayman, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways said, “There could be some disruption to the public for a short time, but it will be kept to a minimum.
“It will be worth any slight inconvenience, because the work will leave these lovely trees in a better condition. They will continue to adorn the landscape for Melksham residents to enjoy for many years to come.”
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