SENIOR councillors will be asked to review alleged flaws in the council's decision-making processes following sustained criticism over the controversial felling of an avenue of trees in Saltaire.

Members of the Shipley Area Committee last night agreed to refer a petition, which calls for more replacement trees to be planted, to the council's executive committee.

Committee members also agreed to raise other matters with their executive colleagues, including claims that the consultation process over the tree felling scheme had been misleading and didn't involve enough people.

The executive will be asked to consider residents' calls for further tree planting to mitigate against the loss of 32 mature trees in Victoria Road.

Campaigner Jackie Mulligan, who has been vocal in her criticism of the decision-making process which led to the tree felling, told the meeting at Shipley Town Hall that Bradford Council should now commit itself to reinstate "trees and greenery" on Victoria Road, including moveable planters which are used in other towns and cities.

"Moveable planters would shield the visibility of parked cars and would ensure the look, feel and ambience of the village could return - it also might improve air quality and slow the traffic down."

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She was critical of the consultation process, claiming that only council officers had found it acceptable, and urged councillors to "replant more trees on Victoria Road and learn from this very recent and upsetting past."

Members of the Area Committee were sympathetic to her complaints.

Councillor Simon Cooke was applauded by members of the public after telling the meeting that council officers held too much power and made too many decisions with little public or democratic input.

"The council makes very substantial decisions under delegated authority to officers. It is a mistake that the council keeps making."

There was also criticism of the wording of a consultation letter to residents which made no mention of trees being cut down.

Councillor Debbie Davies said it was important for the council to use "simple and honest" language.

After leaving the meeting, Mrs Mulligan called for "local empowerment" so that important decisions could be taken locally.

"Matters are always referred back to the executive - it happens every time."

She added: "We want moveable planters, which are used in European cities and heritage cities. We need more 'green'."

Resident Jamie Sefton, who is Mrs Mulligan's husband, said 20,000 street trees had been planted in London in recent years.

"It's time to bring more green back to Saltaire."