A plan to chop down two trees in Verulamium Park coincides with a new tree strategy put forward by St Albans City and District Council.
During a planning policy and climate committee meeting on Tuesday (November 14), the council agreed the framework and timeline of a revised tree strategy.
This strategy "recognises trees as a key tool to enhancing biodiversity, tackling the climate emergency, and improving the quality of life for those living and working in the area" according to the St Albans Liberal Democrats.
Proposals will also see the local authority's tree stock "managed safely whilst maximising the benefits to the environment".
The council will also work with developers to ensure trees are not adversely affected by new developments.
This will see trees retained where possible, and new trees planted.
However, the new strategy coincides with a planning application - submitted the same day - to fell one sycamore and one beech tree in Verulamium Park.
The work, described as "tree works in conservation area" focusses on plants on land in front of the Verulamium Museum, off St Michael's Street.
Speaking about the new strategy, councillor Raj Visram said: "This is incredibly important both to the council and to the Liberal Democrats.
"Trees are a huge part of ensuring the quality of life of residents, enhancing biodiversity, and tackling the climate emergency.
"We all have a role to play in nurturing our trees and managing them well.
‘’Ensuring that the council have an up-to-date strategy that caters to the needs of both our district and climate is imperative to the wellbeing of people across St Albans.
"I am so pleased that our council have agreed on the framework and timeline of this new Tree Strategy."
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Residents can comment on or object to the application until December 5, with the application expiring on Christmas Day, December 25.
The application can be viewed by using reference TP/2023/0601 on the St Albans City and District Council planning portal: www.stalbans.gov.uk/view-and-track-planning-applications
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