An impassioned plea to protect Carlisle’s trees has been made, after it emerged the county council is considering felling 600 across the city.

Slashing the number of trees from 2,400 to 1,800 would “reduce future maintenance liability” amid public safety and maintenance concerns, according to a council report.

The move – one of several options on the table – would come with a price tag of about £420,000, or £100,000 over four years.

The report was discussed at a meeting of the county council’s local committee for Carlisle.

It said that trees provide benefits but can also pose a risk to people and property if not properly managed, with the cost of looking after them “likely to increase over time”.

But Elizabeth Mallison, Conservative councillor for Stanwix Urban, said she was concerned that reducing the number of trees had been included as an option in the report.

She added: “Trees are a very emotive subject. They are the lungs of the city, and I would be very sad if we were to commit ourselves to a cull unless the trees [in question] are dangerous.

“But I would also like to see a programme of pollarding certain trees that are dangerous and not just cutting them down if they are healthy.”

The options listed on a tree management update also included undertaking a tree replacement programme, increasing the tree maintenance budget and carrying out an “informal” public consultation.

A total of about 2,400 trees are inspected in the Carlisle Local Committee area.

Labour councillor Alan McGuckin, whose division of Castle has 517 trees, said: “Trees make the roadside attractive and are very positive for the urban environment, but they can also cause significant problems.”

It is not the first time the issue of trees has caused concern in the city. Original proposals for work to improve Warwick Road were met with outcry, after council officials' original plans included the felling of some trees.

In his conclusion to the report Dominic Donnini, executive director for economy and infrastructure, said a “balance” was needed between what has to be done and what can be afforded in the future.

“It is likely that a combination of the options will be needed, and officers will need to provide more information to members in the future for further discussion,” he said.

Members agreed to note the contents of the report.

Estimated costs

Felling a tree – £200-£400

Removing timber – £50-£150

Stump grinding – £100-£200.

Reinstatement – £400-£500.

Replacement £300-£600