Dessie Dinnenn: Concerned about wildlife

Elizabeth Lehy, who has lived in the area for more than 30 years, said the trees encouraged birds to come into to her garden.

But she said she would never forget what happened to them.

"I was horrified," she said.

"I came in and sat down and cried, I really did. When I looked round at all those lovely trees lying on the ground, it was so sad."

Another resident, Dessie Dinneen, said he was concerned about what would happen to the animals and birds.

"Yesterday, the birds were everywhere. It was like a death in this area. There was a quietness," he said.

The Department of Environment said there were no tree preservation orders in force on the site.

They said they were unable to comment further as the ground is part of an ongoing planning application.

Later this year, the Northern Ireland Assembly will be considering tougher legislation to protect trees in the province.