KIRKLEES Council has come under fire for feeling trees but failing to control weeds a few yards away.

Pensioner Alan Smith, 87, says Kirklees Council have neglected Fenay Lea Drive, Fenay Bridge.

Mr Smith, who has lived there for 35 years, says his street has become a mess of overgrown weeds and cracked paving slabs.

Mr Smith, a retired Post Office driver, said: “What a disgraceful state Fenay Lea Drive is, thanks to Kirklees.

“They’re concentrating on Almondbury and they have forgotten about us.”

Meanwhile Phil Butterfield, who lives round the corner on Fenay Bridge Road, has criticised Kirklees for chopping down trees to make way for the Fenay Greenway, a walking and cycle trail.

Mr Butterfield said: “The reason I moved to this area was because of the natural beauty of the area where trees line the road, softening the view for its residents.

“This is a natural habitat for wild animals and birds, which is now in danger.”

A spokesman for Kirklees Council said: “A team has now dealt with weeds in the area and Fenay Lea Drive has been sprayed.

“The work in the railway corridor is being done in accordance with an approved ecological survey and following granting of full planning permission.

“The trees are self seeded rather than formally planted and the area will benefit from the thinning to encourage better growth of remaining species and plants.”