More small trees could be planted along a busy Otley road to try to prevent verges being constantly damaged.

The idea for Bradford Road was one of several discussed by Leeds City Council highways officers and Otley Town Council leader, Councillor John Eveleigh (Lab, Ashfield), and Councillor Kevin Cooney (Lab, West Chevin) last week.

Verges in Bradford Road are churned up by works, delivery and some residents’ vehicles parking on them.

Coun Cooney said planting low trees along the roadside could provide a long-lasting solution to a problem that was spoiling the look of the area.

He said: “Residents find it very frustrating when verges are regularly damaged, as this does detract from the otherwise good appearance of the area and its properties.

“Many residents have resorted to putting down stones or logs on their verges to try to stop vehicles getting on. A few bollards were authorised by the city council, too, but even these get damaged or removed.

“The town council will discuss these options before any decisions are taken.”

Other issues raised at the meeting included the state of the footpath on the golf course side of West Busk Lane, which has been ready for re-surfacing for a while now without any sign of work starting. Coun-cillors Eveleigh and Cooney were told a hedge along the golf course boundary needs to be cut back before the re-surfacing can begin. The golf club will be approached about this.

Damage to the footpath in Maylea Drive, towards Bradford Road, will be repaired once spraying work to kill off Mare's Tail, the weed causing the damage, has been completed.