THE next phase of a street trees replacement programme in the centre of Minehead began on Monday (February 23).

The trees in The Avenue are owned by Somerset Council, but the town council is funding and delivering the work because of the unitary authority’s financial crisis.

The work supports a long‑term commitment by town councillors to preserving and enhancing the historic character of The Avenue so it retains its distinctive tree‑lined appearance for the future.

The unitary authority has agreed to remove one tree which was found to be failing, work which requires a road closure.

Both councils are using the same contractor for all of the tree‑related operations with Somerset meeting the cost of reducing the failing tree to a three-feet tall stump and the town paying for the full removal of it along with three other stumps.

A town council spokesperson said: “Delivering all tasks in a single operation avoids the need for a further road closure and ensures the project progresses efficiently and with minimal disruption.”

Next week, a local contractor will reinstate the planting pits ready for the installation of four new Tilia cordata ‘Streetwise’ trees, an urban‑appropriate species selected for its resilience and longevity.

The new trees will be fitted with protective metal guards and supported by a 10‑year maintenance commitment from the town council to ensure strong establishment and long‑term success.

A final replacement tree near Glenmore Road will follow shortly after, completing the current phase of The Avenue restoration programme.

Town clerk Ben Parker said: “Although these are Somerset Council street trees, the town council is committed to stepping in where proactive replacement is not currently funded.

“By co-ordinating our works, we are securing good value for residents, minimising disruption, and ensuring a high‑quality, resilient tree‑lined Avenue for generations to come.”