HUGE trees flanking an east Cleveland road are being blamed for an increase in crime.
Local councillor Dave McLuckie claims the trees, on Byland Road in Skelton, are being used as a hiding place for drug users, because they block out closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) and has led to an increase in anti-social behaviour in the town.
Coun McLuckie is calling for the trees to be cut back because he says it is ruining the quality of life the neighbours have, and is affecting the levels of light pouring into their homes.
"They are too big to be near homes and provide hiding places for people involved in dubious activities. I want to have them pruned back."
He said that a recently installed CCTV camera cannot work in certain directions because of the trees and thinks this is to blame for an increase in anti-social behaviour.
He wants to see the trees chopped back and Penny Furniss, planning officer with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said her department would give advice on suitable trees to be planted when an official request comes through.
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