The state government has been lashed for cutting down dozens of old gums two days before a community meeting to discuss its $114 million plan to remove a level crossing in Essendon.

"They removed the trees [on Tuesday] and there were some distraught residents who tried to intervene," said local resident Ida Perez. "The whole thing just stinks."

Moonee Valley mayor John Sipek​ said the trees removed included 17 sugar gums, which were on Moonee Valley Council's significant tree register as the largest in the area.

The Buckley Street level crossing, next to Essendon station, is one of 50 level crossings the government plans to remove across the city to improve safety and speed up travel times.