Work to decompact soil around the trees on Twickenham Green has begun.

Horse chestnut trees on the green have been surrounded by metal fencing.

A notice pinned to the fences from Richmond Council says the soil has become "highly compacted" from everyday wear.

Soil improvement work takes place today and tomorrow (March 24-25) and the fencing will remain in place for a month afterwards for recovery.

"To keep our mature horse chestnut trees for many years to come we are undertaking soil improvement (aeration and feeding) works on March 24 and 25," the notice says.

"This will be followed by a period of four weeks' recovery and fencing to protect the soil and allow for recovery.

"A soil investigation showed that soils on Twickenham Green are highly compacted through years of everyday wear from people, vehicles and machines on the grass.

"Soil compaction restricts the availability of air, water and nutrients to the tree roots. These elements are vital especially for our ageing trees.

"Aeration involves injecting compressed air around the trees' rooting area without causing damage to the roots.

"The aim of this work is to decompact the soil and bring about a more favourable environment for Twickenham Green's valuable horse chestnut trees.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these works and thank you for your patience while remedial works are carried out.

"Fencing will be removed April 23."

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