NETWORK Rail have been slammed by politicians and community activists over their decision to cut back trees and vegetation on train lines through Glasgow.

Concerns have been raised about works by the railway operator, which are expected to begin imminently along the Glasgow to East Kilbride corridor through the South Side.

At the end of August it was announced that clearing would take place along the eleven-mile railway corridor, with plant-life removed for up to six metres on either side of the tracks.

Glasgow MP Alison Thewliss has criticised Network Rail, claiming the infrastructure manager has not full interacted with the communities affected by the extensive removal of greenery.

READ MORE: Queen Street renovations affect Anniesland and Cumbernauld lines

Now, the politician, along with local activists from the Strathbungo Society, have asked for the work to be postponed while a meeting is arranged to discuss this.

The SNP MP said: “I am deeply disappointed that Network Rail appear to be pressing ahead with plans to significantly cut back trees and vegetation without engaging in a meaningful consultation process with residents and local communities.

"Indeed, Network Rail advise on their website that work in this regard begins in September, with the last of their public drop-in sessions taking place on September 11. This would intimate that they have little intention of exploring alternatives or addressing concerns that may be forthcoming from those who will be most impacted.

"We should be doing all that we can to preserve our green spaces, particularly in built-up, urban environments where they are less abundant. Network Rail should rethink these plans, and engage with residents as a matter of urgency.”

Those living in the area echoed Ms Thewliss' comments.

READ MORE: ScotRail boss confirms Glasgow trains' review after major events chaos

In an online statement, the Strathbungo Society condemned plans for "chainsaws and giant chippers... to work all night", saying the organisation are out of step with the response to the climate emergency from lawmakers at both Scottish Government and local council level.

They added: "Nobody in Strathbungo wants to compromise safety on the railway but there is a lack of proportion to this plan which if implemented would devastate precious habitat for birds, mammals and insects and rob residents of the screening from noise and pollution that trees provide."

In response, Network Rail said that works would allow for future improvements on the railway line.

The group said such clearing and excavation of the natural habitat was necessary to give a full picture of any potential works to be carried out on the Glasgow to East Kilbride line.

READ MORE: Anger over Glasgow Central trains "shambles" ahead of Scotland's 2020 qualifier

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are removing vegetation so we can carry-out detailed ground assessments ahead of future investment, including potential electrification of the line.

“We understand that the removal of trees can be concerning for some residents which is why we have written to lineside neighbours along the route to make them aware of our plans and have also held a series of community drop-in events to talk to people in more detail about the work.

“We take our environmental responsibilities seriously and carry-out environmental and ecological surveys to identify any protected species or birds in the area before commencing work.”