More than 3,000 trees will replace about 800 which were removed from a motorway embankment, triggering a furious reaction from neighbours in February.

Highways England made the announcement at a public meeting on Friday (April 15), but people living near the M11 in Fiddlers Hamlet still expressed concern that “hideous” noise and views could remain until the trees are planted in October.

One member of the public said the motorway is an “oppressive presence” after a 550m row of trees was removed from the side of the road.

At the meeting in St Albans Church in Coopersale Common, people claimed children have been sent home from school after falling asleep at their desks because of overnight noise.

Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing chaired the meeting, saying she was “very concerned” with the effect on people’s lives.

Highways England and contractors Amey said the trees had to be removed to allow £4.7m maintenance works, with the embankment previous unstable and in danger of slipping, potentially causing a major accident.

They said a mix of young and mature trees, including Hornbeam, Scots Pine and Beech, will be planted in October but people claimed the situation will be “hell” without a noise barrier or fence.

One person said: “We are not asking for a fence to go all the way down the M11, we are asking for one that covers all our properties, which is not a lot to ask for… to protect our little village.”

She added: “There are properties from 1600, it is a beautiful, tiny little hamlet.

“It is who we are really.”

Pressed on the issue, officials agreed to look into the possibility of installing a fence and said they would give an “initial response” within two weeks.

Barry Samms, from Fiddlers Hamlet, said: “I am sure they can find an excuse not to put in one if they want.

“If they allow us the fence then we will be happy.

“We have put up with so much for the last few months, at least they could meet us in the middle.”

People living in Fiddlers Hamlet were unaware the trees were being removed until it happened, after letters warning residents were written but not delivered.

Highways England team leader Aran Nugent said: “We are sorry to all local residents that we have had to remove these trees and for the disruption caused while we complete essential repairs to the M11.”

He added: “We welcomed the opportunity to meet with the local residents as we were keen to explain why we are carrying out this work and reassure people that we will be replanting trees.”