Views Sought on Removal of Trees Outside Brentford Library

Eight to be cut down on recommendation of arboriculturists

The trees around Brentford Library are deemed to be too large

August 28, 2026

Hounslow Council has launched a public consultation on plans to remove eight large trees and pollard two others in the garden of Brentford Community Hub and Library, after arboriculturists warned that the mature specimens have outgrown their space and now pose a significant safety risk.

The trees, which stand at around 25 metres tall, have become increasingly unstable because their roots cannot penetrate beneath Windmill Road. According to Councillor Guy Lambert, this has left them vulnerable in high winds and unable to anchor themselves securely. A similar tree on the edge of Windmill Road fell several years ago, causing considerable damage and narrowly missing the war memorials and passers-by. Expert advice provided to the council indicates that the remaining trees are now at comparable risk and must be felled.

Cllr Lambert also noted that the trees in question are Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as “Tree of Heaven”, a fast-growing non-native species which is no longer legally sold in the UK due to its invasive behaviour and mild toxicity. Their rapid growth and shallow rooting make them particularly unsuitable for confined urban spaces.

Although the works will involve the loss of eight mature trees, the council says the garden will not be left bare. Eight new replacement trees will be planted within the grounds, chosen specifically for their ability to thrive in the space without reaching unsafe heights. The intention is to create a long-term, manageable canopy that preserves greenery while avoiding the structural risks posed by the current specimens.

To give residents an opportunity to ask questions and understand the reasons behind the works, the Greenspace tree team will be available at Brentford Community Hub and Library on two dates:

• Tuesday 1 September, 2pm–3.30pm
• Thursday 3 September, 6pm–7.30pm

Residents can drop in to discuss the arboricultural assessments, the replanting plans, and the timetable for the works. The council says it hopes the sessions will reassure the community that the decision has been driven by safety concerns and a commitment to maintaining a healthy, sustainable garden for the future.