Giant trees create town landmark

The redwood trees are being planted on a hill

Two giant redwood trees are being planted to create a new landmark in part of Essex.

Reaching heights of more than 300ft (91m), the tree is famed for being among the tallest in the world.

Basildon Council is planting two saplings, which have been specially grown in Italy, on a hill next to the London-bound A127 Billericay slip road.

The redwoods are among 75 new trees which are due to be planted in the district soon.

'Clearly visible'

Councillor Anthony Hedley said: "While we plant dozens of native trees each year, we also plant species from across the world to create more variety in the landscape.

"We hope the trees grab the interest of local residents, and become a much-loved and, easy to spot, landmark in the future."

Council arboriculture officer Gary Meadowcroft said: "Giant redwoods are beautiful trees which stay green throughout the year and have a distinctive orange-coloured bark which is spongy to touch.

"The hill is the perfect location for them because they dominate the landscape with their height and colour.

"While they might be small in the beginning, they grow quickly and it won't be long before they are clearly visible."