WORK to fell five lime trees in front of Kennaway House, Sidmouth, will begin on Monday, April 28, before restoration of the Regency building starts in June.

WORK to fell five lime trees in front of Kennaway House, Sidmouth, will begin on Monday, April 28, before restoration of the Regency building starts in June.Martin Gill, architect for the million pound project, was in Sidmouth last week meeting Michael James, chairman of Kennaway House, to discuss felling the limes, which trustees originally wanted to reduce in height, and a tulip tree near the front of the house.Dr James said: "Stuart Baker, the tree conservation officer at EDDC, surprised us all by suggesting the row come down and to some extent we were led by him."There are two lines of lime trees in gardens in front of Kennaway House, and a row of horse chestnuts that will not be affected.By removing one row of limes, which were planted in the 1970s, the others will look less cluttered.A council spokeswoman said the removal of trees was part of a larger restoration project which included both the house and landscaping of the grounds. "The removal of these mainly poor quality trees will open up the views to this attractive Grade II* listed building with a minimal impact on the wider views of the area," the spokesman said. The proposed removal went to Sidmouth Town Council for determination under conservation area regulations and it was one of the first issues determined under its new quality council status.No objections were raised by members of the public who were consulted over the proposed tree works.Final plans for the landscaping of the grounds in front of the house remain "fluid" said Mr Gill.Meanwhile, the Friends of Kennaway House have made more than £200 by allowing public parking in the grounds, charging £1 per visit. Money made will boost the refurbishment fund.