The appearance of Broughty Ferry Esplanade will change in the next few weeks when as many as 14 mature trees are cut down to allow repairs to the pavements.
Though regretting the loss, Councillor Derek Scott said the trees’ roots had caused considerable damage to the paths, with the ruts and cracks they made posing a trip hazard.
“I met on site last week with a senior engineer from road maintenance to go over the intended work and to find out if there are any measures that can be taken to allow more of the trees to remain,” he said.
“The damage to the pavement in some locations is substantial and it is likely that these trees will be lost. However, damage is not as bad at a few other locations and the pavement around these trees will be excavated and if the roots causing the problem can be removed without harming the tree then this will be done.
“New trees will be planted to replace those that are lost. These will have a root guard to ensure that future growth doesn’t damage the pavement.”
Work is expected to start between Bridge Street and the Glass Pavilion in September.
“I have been told that the Friends of Barnhill Rock Garden and Broughty Ferry Community Planning Partnership will be consulted about the proposed works,” Mr Scot added.
“I appreciate the need to rectify a significant trip hazard but I am saddened that so many mature trees are to be lost.”