A larger number of lime trees around Kenilworth will be cut back in the coming weeks, a county councillor has confirmed.

Cllr Rik Spencer had trees in Waverley and Priory Roads pollarded back in 2021, using funding from Warwickshire County Council (WCC), and has since arranged for more works across St John's Ward.

WCC is responsible for 103 lime trees in the ward, and funding has now been secured to cut back the epicormic growth following the pollarding

The Conservative councillor said while the trees do look "rather harsh and unattractive" immediately after the work, it does help "enhance the longevity and overall health of the tree", while also reducing its height.

"I've learnt so much about trees in just two years," said Cllr Spencer.

"Something which I witnessed last year is that once a lime tree has been pollarded, it encourages epicormic growth on the lower section of the trunk, which can obstruct the footpath.

Cllr Rik Spencer says he has helped invest over £30,000 in tree projects across the town (image via Cllr Rik Spencer)

"Hence residents will be pleased to hear that I have already spoken with the WCC Forestry team and arranged for this growth to be removed over the coming weeks.

"It is vitally important not only for our climate, but also for the ambiance and appeal of our residential areas, that moving forward, we regularly undertake maintenance of our trees.

"And while I am your county council representative in St John's division, I pledge to continue with this vital work."

Residents may have spotted the different styles of pollarding in the area.

There is the standard traditional pollard as seen in Waverley Road, whereas 'frame' pollarding was used in Priory Road. The larger the tree and the longer the time period between a tree having been pollarded, the more likely it is that the most suitable treatment is this latter style.

Cllr Spencer explained that away from Waverley and Priory Roads, most of the remaining Lime trees in St John's division have never been pollarded, so the WCC Forestry team have had to use wider style of frame pollard.

He is also encouraging residents to water and help maintain the trees across the area, particular given the recent hot, dry weather.