Sandwell Council's work to remove trees at pool receives criticism from conservation group
A council has cut down small trees and shrubs around a pool - attracting criticism from a conservation group.
Sandwell Council said the work at West Smethwick Park, in Smethwick, will help to "restore historic views".
But Save Our Sandwell Canada Geese - which was launched after the council deliberately killed more than 200 geese in 2014 - said the removal of the plants will promote "indiscriminate fishing, out of control dogs and litter".
The group classes itself as a environmental conservation organisation. In a Facebook post, the group said: "They are undermining everything that we are trying to do, and it is quite deliberate malice."
In response to the story, Sandwell's interim council leader Maria Crompton said: "This work is part of the £5.1m restoration project at the park.
"These improvements include constructing a new pavilion and a boathouse feature, creating a new events area and nature conservation improvements including woodland, grassland and wetland works.
"We’ve had to remove scrub and small trees to the bank edge to open up and restore historic views from the footpath and adjacent areas to the lake. We’ve retained larger trees.
“We’re also retaining trees that were planted as part of the landscape design of the park or are ornamental and will be planting additional heavy standard-sized trees.
"These improvements will help us improve the habitat for wildlife as we know this spot is particularly favoured by wildfowl.
"We are committed to continue our ongoing investment into our parks to make them a place where wildlife thrives and people want to visit."
The improvements are part-funded by a £4.5 million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, with the remaining balance funded by Sandwell Council.
