RESIDENTS in the Fullarton area of Troon were furious when several trees were destroyed along a popular cycle and footpath.

The damage was caused when engineers from SP Power were laying new cables adjacent to the walkway which runs behind Fullarton Crescent.

One of the householders in the area, who has asked not to be named, described the scenario as a ‘total botch up’.

He wants the energy company to restore the trees back to the way they were.

He said: “The cables were supposed to go on the outside of the footpath but, because of flooding, they changed this and destroyed trees.

“What many people are angry about is that there was no consultation on this as, if there had been, householders would never have let it happen.

“They have now apologised and promised to restore the trees but residents are now concerned about who will be monitoring this when work starts this week.”

South Ayrshire Council’s grounds maintenance team is understood to have had an informal meeting with SP Energy to agree on what is to happen.

Mike Newall, head of neighbourhood services, said: “The council has been in discussion with Scottish Power about the size and type of trees that are to be planted and we understand that a specialist company is to carry out the work. 

“We will inspect the area on completion to ensure that planting has been carried out to our satisfaction.”

A spokesman for SP Energy Networks said: “We are currently undertaking a £2million upgrade project in Troon, which will strengthen the security of electricity supplies for homes and businesses in the local area.

“Following cable laying along the cycle path between Willockston Road and Craigend Road, we have met with local community groups and other stakeholders to discuss a plan to replant trees in the area.

“A comprehensive proposal has now been agreed with South Ayrshire Council, with work scheduled to begin in April 20 and last for three days.

“The cycle path will remain open during this work.

“We have taken on board comments from the local community to help design our plan, and we apologise for the inconvenience that our original cable-laying caused.”