The fig trees along Toronto's main street are beautiful, majestic and they are a distinctive part of Toronto's signature streetscape.

The fig trees provide shade and ambience during hot summer days as shoppers stroll down The Boulevarde towards the waterfront.

It is not unusual to see children playing around these magnificent fig trees while their parents shop.

You can also see elderly people sitting on the elevated terraces at the base of the fig trees.

The trees also provide a canopy for the alfresco dining in front of the restaurants near the waterfront end of The Boulevarde.

According to your article, an independent arborist has advised the council that the fig trees are healthy and safe. I find it incomprehensible that considering all the benefits derived from healthy and safe fig trees the council is advocating to destroy them.

Lake Macquarie City Council argues about the ongoing costs of repairing the damage caused by the trees and the risk of litigation.

Anything worthwhile requires time, effort and money for maintenance, but, the benefits derived from the trees far outweigh the cost.

In regard to litigation, the question is: has there ever been a litigation over the Toronto fig trees?

And, if not, what is the probability of this occurring in the future if it has not occurred in the long history of the trees?

If so, what sort of costs are we talking about?

And has council considered the installation of root barriers in the areas where they have concern?

- Elisabeth Cox, Toronto