THE council's portfolio holder for landscaping in Redditch has expressed concern he has not been involved in the formulation of a landscaping improvement plan.

Conservative councillor Brandon Clayton, who chaired Redditch Council's executive committee last week, said he found it "strange" he had had no input whatsoever into a document setting out strategies for landscaping improvements over three years.

"I'm disappointed with the report," Mr Clayton told fellow councillors.

"I had no input, which I find strange. Whether this was an oversight I don't know but I can't approve it."

He asked for the report to be delayed until after the election so whoever takes the portfolio afterwards could have some input.

But Labour councillor David Cartwright said even though Mr Clayton was the portfolio holder, it was his job to "monitor performance" - not to set targets.

The document, formulated by working groups, sets out a wide range of targets for the improvement of landscaping and green space in Redditch, including allotments, woodland, parks, the town centre and sports pitches.

Councillors Pat Wilson and David Cartwright both agreed the policy on 'blanket' Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) needed to be reviewed urgently.

Mrs Wilson said: "TPOs cause immense trouble as far as planning is concerned."

But a review could be lengthy and expensive said Mr Cartwright, as the town's trees may have to be assessed on an almost individual basis.

Redditch Council spends £1.8 million a year on landscape maintenance.