A SMALL stretch of shrubbery in Teignmouth town centre is causing a major rumpus between traders and councillors.

Three businesses claim a few feet of the raised floral bed opposite the Triangle is obstructing the view of their premises and losing them trade.

They want to be allowed to take on responsibility for maintaining the border between the pavement and the street, and keep the shrubs trimmed to a lower level.

But opponents maintain the greenery is attractive and also acts as a windbreak, a noise barrier and a haven for birds.

Emotions ran high when it was discussed at a town council meeting on Tuesday, and Cllr Vince Fusco was particularly upset and declared: 'I feel very, very strongly about this. We don't want a concrete jungle there, and trying to do away with the border is completely out of order.'

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