A fierce row broke out on the English Riviera today over one of Torquay's most prickly subjects – its famous palm trees.

As part of a spring clean, palms have been uprooted from a flower bed near the harbour and others are to be moved, causing howls of protest from councillors, shopkeepers and residents.

Councillor Robert Excell said he was "shocked" by the removal of the trees and described the scene as "carnage".

"I understood they were going to thin it out and improve views across the harbour. I didn't expect this carnage. It was a bit of a shock seeing it," he said.

Jenny Faulkner, another councillor, said she understood that the beds were being cleared to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour taking place in the shadows, but said: "It is a shame they have cleared it out completely. They should have had the manners to inform people."

Pauline Harvey, who owns a gift shop on Victoria Parade, said: "It's terrible. People come to Torquay expecting to see palm trees and lovely plants."

The palm trees, which have added an exotic touch to Torquay since Victorian times, have long caused tension. There was outrage three years ago when fears were raised that palms placed in inappropriate positions could scratch passersby.

Torbay council today insisted it was not intent on removing the beloved trees. It admitted a "handful" of smaller palms had been removed from the harbour area, but said larger ones were going to be spread out to form an attractive avenue.