Nearly 100 trees will have to be cut down to allow the redevelopment of Queen’s Drive.

Some have already been felled from the site of George Gay Gardens, where blocks of flats have been demolished and many more are set to come down.

But Swindon Borough Council says the building of nearly 150 affordable houses will see more trees planted to replace them.

Cathy Martyn, the council’s cabinet member for housing and public safety, said: “Native trees comprising hedge maple, whitebeam, beech, hornbeam and oak are being planted for the new Queen's Drive regeneration scheme. “This will include ornamental trees chosen for their characteristics and suited to their locations.

“In order for the regeneration of the former George Gay Gardens site to go ahead, 89 trees have to be removed, and 24 of these have been removed to date.

“I am pleased to say that 116 new trees will be planted offering an array of fruit and nuts. They will act as a shelter and habitat for birds, bats, butterflies and bees.

“In addition, native hedgerows, shrubs and perennials will be included and bat and bird nesting boxes will be placed at various locations.

“The redevelopment of Queen's Drive shows that this council gives top priority to ensuring there are quality affordable homes available in Swindon and that the environment is not adversely affected.”

Nearby residents were pleased to hear that the trees earmarked for destruction would be replaced.

George Milligan, 57 said he was an enthusiast about trees and wildlife: “If they’re putting them back, that’s okay.

"The trees near the site are not especially interesting or beautiful, they’re a bit scrubby really but it’s better to have them than not.

“I’m glad the new trees will be native species as well, because that will be better for the insects, and therefore better for the birds and all the other wildlife.”

Margaret Dixon said: “I was a bit worried when I was told they’d have to cut down all the trees around the area.

"It’s pretty green around here and it makes it much nicer.

"But I’m happy to hear that more trees will be planted.”

Swindon Borough Council is driving the scheme to build 149 affordable flats and houses in the area saying it will be a major regeneration for the area, which it calls a key gateway to the centre of town.

Flats will also be built on nearby plots to the demolished sheltered housing on George Gay Gardens.