‘We can confirm that we’re not removing trees for 5G technology’

Residents have been voicing concerns after noticing many trees across the borough have recently been felled or lopped. Some claiming this is to make way for 5G technology.

The Havering Daily contacted the council for an official response.

Councillor Damian White, Leader of Havering Council, said:

“The Council will always do whatever it can to protect its trees and open spaces and is very proud of being one of the greenest boroughs.

“We can confirm that we’re not removing trees for 5G technology. Our highways tree team will only remove trees if they are found to be diseased, dying or are dangerous and pose a safety risk.

“A removal is a last resort and is only carried out once a detailed inspection has been made and there is no alternative.

“At the beginning of 2019, our team removed some cherry trees from Park Drive which had been there since the 1930s and had come to a natural end of life after showing clear signs of decay and fungal disease. Other trees removed in the Upminster area were also found to be diseased or dying.

“We will always try to replace any trees that are taken away the following year after removal, as part of the Council’s tree planting list, as long as the location is considered to be suitable.”