Shocked and angry neighbours had no chance to oppose the removal of trees blocking motorway noise and views – because letters warning of the work were not delivered.

On February 1 contractors for Highways England began clearing the row of trees, believed to be about 40-years-old, from an embankment next to the M11 northbound near Fiddlers Hamlet, Epping Forest.

People living in the hamlet say traffic noise now reaches their homes all day and night, their views have been spoiled and they fear increased pollution levels.

Despite earlier claims from Highways England that residents were written to, it has now emerged that letters notifying people of the work were not sent.

Writing to Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing, Highways England regional director Catherine Brookes said: “Initially we had not planned to write to all households in Fiddlers Hamlet about our work as they were not directly affected by our road closures.

“After further consideration they were included as their properties back onto the affected area.

“However, and regrettably, our contractors failed to deliver any of the planned information letters and we only learned of this error when a resident contacted the local press.

“I would like to apologise to you and all the residents of Fiddlers Hamlet for our failure.”

The trees were cut down as part of M11 ‘improvement works’ near junction six.

Bob Millar, 59, of Mount Road, said the noise and views from the road are now “horrendous”.

He said people should have been told of the works in advance, adding: “The lack of forewarning is a sign of lack of consideration for the residents.

“Most important is what the contractors are going to put in to return the embankment, at a minimum, to its former state.

“We want it back.”

Some neighbours previously said they were considering moving home because the trees were removed, and others wanted compensation.

Highways England says it is now considering what ‘short and long-term screening can be provided’.

Mrs Laing said: “I was extremely concerned when local residents told me what had happened and I have been in touch with Highways England about the situation.

“I will continue to put pressure on Highways England to replace the necessary screening which is required to protect the residents from the noise of traffic using the M11.”