WORK has started to prepare for flood prevention works on the expansion Trinity Winchester.

Trees have been felled next to Durngate car park in recent days.

A Winchester City Council spokesperson said 17 trees plus larger shrubs had been removed, of generally poor-quality and none are protected by preservation orders.

The spokesperson added: “This is early preparation for a new flood scheme, a major project that will add to the city’s existing protection against flooding.”

A new tree will be planted for every tree removed and this will be at a variety of new locations as the increased light being created is beneficial for the local environment, especially in the river.

The Durngate works are part of the wider ‘North Winchester Flood Alleviation Scheme’.

Trinity plans to build a number of bedsits at the back of its centre.