MORE than two years after railings were put around trees in Petersfield Square which were saved from being felled by residents, new safety work is to be carried out around them.

Two trees have been cordoned off since December 2015 as their roots were causing trip hazards by pushing up paving stones and making the pedestrianised surface uneven.

As part of work to be carried out next Monday, January 8, the uneven cobbles around the base of the trees will be removed and replaced with a covering of tiger mulch.

These manmade rubber chips bond together to create a smooth surface, but they allow rain water through to reach the roots.

The latest works come as is a result of an attempt in November 2015 by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC) to remove the trees to stop people tripping over the exposed roots.

But once the felling plans, recommended by council officers, became public knowledge a protest campaign began. The Petersfield Society co-ordinated the campaign to save the trees, and launched a petition which attracted hundreds of signatures.

Cllr Julie Butler, EHDC’s portfolio holder for customer relations, said: “The safety of residents of Petersfield is always our first priority so the metal railings around the trees have been a necessary addition.

“But I am happy to see these unsightly railings taken away and those corners of The Square opened up again.”

Margaret Paren, chairman of the South Downs National Park Authority, added: “It’s been good to see the people of Petersfield come together to agree this temporary solution taking into account both people’s welfare and how much these trees are loved.”