Large Tree Still 'Attacking' House Of Elderly Couple
They say Council have failed to trim the tree properly
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The elderly couple who complained that a large tree was 'attacking' their home in Merton Avenue, say that Hounslow Council have failed in their promise to deal with the problem.
Brian Boothby, who is aged in his eighties and whose wife is disabled, were told by the Council, following representations made by Cllr John Todd, that the tree would be trimmed away from where it was growing close to their windows.
Hounslow Highways had originally refused to cut back the tree until 2017 because it was not currently listed in their schedule. They then agreed to take action by the end of June.
But Mr. Boothby said that the offending branches of the tree had not been dealt with and the branches were now creeping into their bedroom when the window is open. He said the base of the tree was removed on June 21st, leaving other nearby trees untouched.
The house was getting sticky with honeydew from the lime tree. While the Council had told him the sap was easily removed with soap and water, neither he nor his wife were physically able to do so. He is an 83-year old full-time carer, he said.
The troublesome tree
He has written now to leader of Hounslow Council, Cllr Steve Curran.
The tree has been a problem for many years and he has records of letters to LBH going back to 2002.
Mr. Boothby said he was fed up and angry at what he considered a "continued refusal of help from Hounslow Council.
The offending tree had not been a problem when they purchased the house fifty years ago.
Councillor Amrit Mann, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council, said: “Hounslow Highways operate a regular inspection and maintenance programme for all trees on the borough’s streets.
“On occasion, they use their discretion depending on the trees’ growth and the impact they have on residents living nearby.
“In this case, Hounslow Highways agreed to cut back the tree branches near the residents’ property. These works have now been completed.”
July 1, 2016
