I WOULD like to respond to Kip Waistell's letter (Hereford Times, May 31) and say High Town would have been much improved by the use of green landscaping rather than the Red Square look it now has.

It's a shame more trees weren't incorporated in the design. Trees, in comparison to black directional granite paths, lamp columns and hundreds of square metres of paving, are inexpensive. Not to mention the environmental benefits; creating shade, absorbing pollution etc.

The inappropriate Ginkgo biloba, caged in pretentious tree guards and the surrounding fancy stainless seating adornments at Eign Gate, hardly do much to embellish the street scene.

The trees are inappropriate because (a) they are too small and some have already been subject to their leading shoots being snapped off, and, (b) will eventually get too big for the position.

It's incredible to remember the reason for felling the original silver maples was that they were too big for their environment. Yes, the ginkgos are slow growing, but in time will become as large as the maples - if not larger. Maybe the reason for planting spindly trees is that they will only ever remain as bushes - with vandal pruning provided on a regular basis.

At least the Turkish hazels near the Black and White House, being more substantial trees, look as if they might have a chance to reach maturity.

I would also like to comment this is the same council that has yet to replace the much beloved false acacia in Corn Square, Leominster, torn down by a rubbish collection truck 11 months ago. They have agreed to do it, but haven't. I plant trees for my living. Give me the job and I'll make sure it gets done. Promptly and properly.

Mark Rogers, Hill Corner Cottage, Ledgemoor.