Installation of controversial metal trees in Bury St Edmunds street delayed

The installation of two controversial £20,000 metal trees in a major Bury St Edmunds street has been delayed.

The trees designed to give St Andrew’s Street South a visual boost were due to be set up in September.

However, Suffolk County Council bosses have confirmed they were concerned about the ‘safety implications’ over the position of one of the trees.

A spokesman for St Edmundsbury Borough Council, which approved the initiative, said the trees are being funded through section 106 contributions given by arc developer Centros Millar specifically for the installation of public art.

Some councillors have hit out at the trees though.

Cllr David Nettleton said: “It’s a stupid idea. They’re in the way. It’s a waste of money. The money could be spent anywhere in that particular area. They just decided to spend it on tin trees.”

Cllr Trevor Beckwith added: “I still think it’s a crackpot idea. It’s just a waste of money.”

Cllr Robert Everitt, chairman of the council’s area working party which approved the plans, defended the trees. He said: “They were we felt something that was a little bit quirky and different that would give the street a bit of a lift. If we don’t spend the 106 money it goes back to the developer.”

Cllr Everitt said he was ‘disappointed’ the trees were not yet installed and had raised the issue with the county council.

A county council spokesman said: “Due to some complications with the proposed location of the trees, we are working with the designers and borough council to determine the best location and timing of the installation. We are meeting with our contractors and borough council to agree a way forward.”