HONITON Town Council could be asked to arrange a meeting between residents and East Devon District Council – to iron out concerns over the felling of five mature trees along the banks of the River Gissage.

HONITON Town Council could be asked to arrange a meeting between residents and East Devon District Council - to iron out concerns over the felling of five mature trees along the banks of the River Gissage.

Two large poplar trees, two red oaks and a maple tree were reduced to stumps by the district council earlier this month, prompting an outcry from nearby residents.

The council has defended the action, saying the trees had been planted too close to a boundary wall.

Residents fear more trees could be felled along the Gissage in the New Year and say there will be implications for the environment and council tax payers.

"I don't think we should be felling mature trees, other than in exceptional circumstances," said Ashleigh Road resident Tony Simpson.

"The environmental implications haven't been fully explored. The trees act as a sound barrier to noise from the A30 and also help to absorb Co2 emissions from traffic on the road.

"And what consideration was given to wildlife?

"Issues need to be discussed with residents, because the whole neighbourhood is affected.