AS a Boltonian of over 30 years, I was absolutely shocked to see the trees in Newport Street and Victoria Square being chopped down.

These trees have been with us for decades and have added character and colour to what could only be described as a featureless pedestrian walkway. Surely the people should have been consulted?

Any upgrading could easily have accommodated the trees. In some European countries, Germany for instance, it is a criminal offence to cut down trees without a valid reason. And having seen the plans for the regeneration of the area, I am not impressed. A few licks of coloured paint and new (uncomfortable looking) benches will not prevent the overall impression of looking cold and uninviting, more like Red Square in Moscow. The one element that is being retained is the oddly angled glass canopy on one side of the street which definitely should go!

Mohammed Ismail,

Ladybridge.