TOWN Hall bosses have launched an investigation into the unauthorised felling of protected trees on one of their car parks.

Local residents are angry at the destruction of local landmark on the council-owned site at the junction of Duckworth Street and Bury Street in Darwen.

Martin Eden, Director of Environment at Blackburn with Darwen Council, promised and full inquiry and prosecution if the culprits are caught.

Cllr Dave Smith, borough planning chairman and local Sunnyhurst ward Labour councillor, has appealed for information on those responsible for chopping down the tress after CCTV film failed to conclusively identify them.

The trees were cut down on June 30 at 7.45pm, and left on the carpark in which they stood.

They are protected by a tree preservation order, which means it is an offence to cut down, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy the trees without the planning committees authority.

The event was caught on CCTV by one of the businesses on the street.

Mr Eden said: “We are currently investigating this matter.

"Trees on Council land are protected and if they are overgrown or causing an issue we would expect residents to contact us rather than carrying out any work themselves.

"Damaging or removing them is considered as criminal damage and the Council may take action to prosecute.”

Cllr Smith said: "If anyone knows who has done this or has any information please contact the council.

"The council has a very dim view on people who cut down trees, especially council owned ones

"We suspect it has been done by a business owner who wants to give passing vehicles a better view of their business as they go past.

"What they have done is a criminal offence and they need to be dealt with.

"If anyone has any evidence please come forward."

One nearby Duckworth street business owner said: "It is completely unacceptable.

"What gives them the right to cut down trees?

"It's not only absolutely wrong but illegal, it is a criminal act.

"It's just totally wrong."

Anyone who deliberately destroys a tree, or damages it in a manner likely to destroy it, could be fined up to £20,000 if convicted in the magistrate's court and would normally have to plant a replacement tree .

In determining the amount of the fine, the court will take account of any financial benefit arising from the offence.

Mr Eden said anyone with information should contact Blackburn with Darwen Council on 01254 585585