The Christchurch City Council has ordered staff to draw up a report on allowing council-owned trees to be removed if it is found they are causing health problems for nearby residents.
The move follows a decision to remove two silver birch trees from outside the home of the Canterbury Rugby Union chief executive Hamish Riach.
Mr Riach complained that the trees were responsible for allergies experienced by his family. This was supported by the Medical Officer of Health.
A report will be completed and voted on by the full council.
