SIR,

You report (Beacon, 28th December) on the general satisfaction with the decision to have a zebra crossing installed in Hereford Road.

But your column does not include the crucial and alarming news that this entails the destruction of three fine mature trees to improve visibility of the zebra for motorists.

This proposal by Mark Youngman, transport policy and compliance manager, is not only tantamount to appalling vandalism but is completely unnecessary. The trees do not obstruct visibility.

Rather than working by the book in his Cwmbran office, Mr Youngman should come over to see for himself. His title of compliance manager sounds quite threatening.

Recently, public outcry prevented our mulish authorities from cutting down the catalpa tree in St John's Square. A similar response may become necessary in this case.

Adam Czerniawski

(Monmouth)