Transport for London (TFL) have been working on the trackside near Hazeldene Estate removing trees throughout January and February.
As part of maintenance, contractors have cut down trees alongside the Metropolitan and Chiltern Lines, but some residents have expressed their concerns for the trackside vegetation and the impact on those who live nearby.
Simon Joshua, Founder of Harrow Biodiversity and Environment, said: “The problem with removing so much cover is, it exposes the railway line to anybody living alongside it. The trees helped protect from dust, noise and light.
“The works are undoubtedly disturbing the wildlife. They are removing entire trees right down to the ground which are 20 years old. We understand the safety aspect, but why completely remove them and why so many.”
Karen Pillai, who lives on the Hazeldene Estate, runs a wildlife club for local children.
She said: “We really have had nearly all of our trackside habitat destroyed. Our bird feeders would be thronging at this time of year, but not one bird visits since they removed the trees. We only have one squirrel left out of 11 and most of our foxes have gone.
“The Junior Wildlife Club fed them all last year and were waiting to see the cubs. There’s no wildlife for the wildlife club. We have to shout above the noise of the trains and they’re disrupting sleep and mental health, not to mention the added pollution. We’re all very angry.”
A TFL spokesperson told PinnerNews: “We take our responsibilities as a good neighbour very seriously when removing trees or other vegetation from near our railway. We always do our utmost to remove only what is necessary, and to leave embankments to grow where possible.
“We are currently carrying out an essential maintenance programme in this area and any trees or vegetation identified as safety risks must be removed. However, we can reassure people in the area that safety is our top priority and vegetation is only removed when there is an absolute need to do so.”
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