Via Rail’s removal of trees along Nepean railway tracks has angered some south end Ottawa residents.

The rail company has been cutting away trees and brush along the tracks that border Pine Glen and Grenfell Crescents in Nepean. The company says it is part of a safety measure that will see new fencing installed.

“There are unfortunately a number of incidents across Canada where trespassing does occur,” Via spokesperson Malcolm Andrews told CBC News. “The result of that, unfortunately, can be a very negative consequence … and we just want to do our best to reduce that.”

Residents said that the clear-cutting is unnecessary and that it has destroyed a natural habitat for birds and animals. They said they’re upset to have lost a natural sound barrier for passing trains, and claim they weren’t given any notice of the work.

Pierre Guitard lives right by the Via tracks and told CBC News he’s angry over how the company has handled the situation.

“It's unfortunate they never did talk to us because could have worked with them,” he said.

Via has said it will allow plants and trees to grow back once they’ve completed the fence, creating a sound buffer once again between the rail line and residents.