OXFORD City Council has defended the way it has managed a park, part of which could be swallowed up by building work.

The authority will ask councillors again next week for permission to extend its depot on part of Cowley Marsh Park.

The plans were initially given the go-ahead on August 2, but 14 councillors ordered the scheme to be looked at again.

Campaigners have complained the council had cut down three willow trees – but the authority said they had to go because they were unsafe.

A council spokesman said: “The work was undertaken in line with the council’s tree survey of the Cowley Marsh area.

“The survey is carried out on a rolling three-year programme.

“Works are prioritised by health and safety.

“The particular trees had been subject to recent limb failure, which highlighted their poor and potentially weak condition, typical of pollard willows.

“They will be replaced in the general tree planting plan in Cowley Marsh this year.

“Other trees in the area have been pruned and not removed and there will be further tree works undertaken in the park which may include removals.”

Residents said one of the park’s wildflower meadows was cut earlier than expected.

But the council said it was to reduce the possibility unwanted grasses would be able to grow later in the year.

The planning review committee will look at the plans again at Oxford Town Hall on Monday at 6pm.

The meeting is open to the public.