Work to fell an ugly cluster of trees in Moray’s biggest town will begin later this month.
Council workers will chop down the group of 45ft mature Scots pines in the centre of Waulkmill Grove to create a brighter neighbourhood.
They will be replaced with more attractive native species to brighten up the Elgin estate.
Councillors agreed to get rid of the 80-year-old pines in 2015 amid calls from residents they were dangerous.
Elgin Community Council chairman, Alistair Kennedy, said: “It has been a long-standing issue there. They’re just not very nice.
“Everything in there gets in such a mess due to all the mess created from the crows and seagulls. This might help get rid of that.
“The size of them must block out a lot of light for the people that live there. I’m sure they’ll be glad to see them go.”
Once the felling has been completed, the stumps will be removed and soil will be imported for grass seed.
The authority hopes to create an “attractive open space” at Waulkmill Grove, following the works with avenue planting along Reiket Lane.
A Moray Council spokesman added: “The working area will be taped off and access to the front of Waulkmill Grove properties will be restricted during the felling works.
“Naturally, there will be noise associated with the work from chainsaws and chipping machinery, but this will only occur during daylight hours.
“An environmental survey will be carried out in advance to ensure there are no nesting birds present.”
The work is scheduled to start in the week beginning Monday, February 13.
