THE latest phase in the refurbishment of Hereford's shopping centre began last Sunday when engineers moved in to remove the trees in Eign Gate.

The trees, most of which were planted in 1970, were said to be 'unsuitable' for the paved pedestrian area due to their entangled roots.

They were also believed to compound the perennial pigeon problem. Many have already been chopped down in High Town.

Plans are underway to replace the trees with foliage more sympathetic to its surroundings.

Eign Gate was created from a section of Eign Street to become one of the West Midlands' first pedestrianised - or 'de-motorised' - areas.