This is why trees are being cut down in Pontypridd's Ynysangharad Park

Trees are being cut down in Pontypridd's Ynysangharad Park - and there's a simple reason why.

Over the past few days many people have been wondering why the trees are being taken down in the park - as well as expressing fears about a loss of green space.

However, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has confirmed the trees are being taken down simply because they are "over-mature and diseased" and could pose a risk to people.

The park is located in Pontypridd (Richard Williams)

A spokesman for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: “The council can confirm that trees recently felled at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park were over-mature, and unfortunately had clear signs of disease.

“Due to their location next to a busy pedestrian route, along with a bus stop outside of the park, there was a risk posed to members of the public – and the decision was taken to fell the trees."

Officials said that they were also looking at ways to replace the trees as well.

“Plans have been drawn up for replacement tree planting, as part of the council’s wider ongoing development of the public park," the spokesman added.

“This programme will take place across the next two years, and will serve to introduce a wider range of tree species into the park.”