John, thanks for the update. I can't say I'm too sorry to see that particular tree go. I have been asking the council to cut it back for years. It had grown way to big for the street, was buckling the pavement, was a safety hazard - a large brach came down last year - and was a year-round mess generator with horrible sticky sap in spring followed by a tsunami of pollen affecting any cars parked within 50ft. Not to mention the 24/7 bird crap from the pigeons, crows and magpies that seemed to like it. Or the leaves in autumn which would not be a problem if the council ever swept them.Still, I hadn't foreseen such a radical solution. At least the refuse collectors have found something useful to do. I will of course be lobbying for a new tree to be planted.
Peter Millman ● 4364d