PETERSFIELD is to be the first town in the South Downs National Park to have its own tree survey, aimed at recognising the importance of trees in the town.

Once the survey is done, a report will say if more trees should be planted, or if existing ones should be protected by Tree Preservation Orders.

Tony Struthers, of The Petersfield Society, said: “We will know what the current tree cover is in the town, and if it needs to be improved.”

More than 200 trees in the town, some in people’s gardens, are to be looked at by trained volunteers, who will measure them and check their health.

Project manager, Dr Andy Moffat, said: “Letters have been sent to householders about the survey. On the day, each field team will carry out individual identification.”

The Forestry Commission, South Downs National Park Authority, Petersfield Town Council and East Hampshire District Council support the survey, which will take place in the summer on a date yet to be set.

The project was agreed after a public outcry about plans to fell maple trees in Petersfield Square.

The felling was the idea of East Hampshire District Council officers, who said roots were coming up through the cobbles, causing a trip hazard.

But it was halted after hundreds of residents signed a petition to save the maples.

They have since been fenced off, and their future, or otherwise, will be included in proposals to revamp the town centre being discussed by the Petersfield Development Committee, said Mr Struthers.

For survey information, contact Dr Moffat on 01730 895475 or 079715 623145.