Issue - meetings

The report was introduced. During public participation, Darek Urlewicz, Peter Sykes and Aisling Sykes (slides shown) spoke in objection to the report and Peter Moir (slides shown) spoke in support of the report and answered Members’ questions thereon.

Councillor Murphy spoke as Ward Member in support of the report to confirm the tree preservation order.

In summary, Councillor Murphy raised the following points:

1.    He expressed strong support for the council's tree strategy, which focused on preserving existing trees and seeking every opportunity to introduce more trees into the district.

2.    He highlighted the essential role that trees play in absorbing carbon from the atmosphere.

3.    He noted that trees provided unique habitats for a wide variety of animals and birds.

4.    He identified specific human benefits identified in the council's tree strategy that were relevant to this application, including the mitigation of the urban heat island effect, the improvement of air quality, and the positive impact on mental health.

5.    He stated that trees were a precious amenity to the local community.

6.    Following a visit to Grafton Road at the invitation of residents to see the two specific trees, he observed that whilst they were large and unwieldy, yew trees were renowned for their tolerance to pruning and shaping.

7.    He referred to Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) online guidance which stated that yew trees, unlike other conifers, could be cut into old wood and would see growth again.

8.    He acknowledged that while a qualified tree surgeon or arboriculturist was required for advice and action, any challenges regarding the shape of the trees could be addressed with positive attention.

9.    He argued that it was far better to preserve trees that council officers have identified as being in good health rather than cutting them down.

10.He suggested that while the trees may not have been managed in recent years, they could be managed in the future through the council's process for agreeing proposed work, which could mitigate issues raised by those objecting to the report.

11.He noted that residents in Grafton Road do not want to lose these tall trees, a sentiment he felt was emphasised by aerial photographs.

12.Having visited the street at sunset, he observed that these trees add significantly to the amenity of the street and their loss would be fundamental and adverse.

13.He stated that when standing in front of these two trees, it was possible to feel how much they contribute to the area.

14.He highlighted that Grafton Road and neighbouring Christchurch Road and Edgar Road had a range of tall trees that were fundamental to the quality of life in the area, and this group of yews was an important part of that.

15.He concluded by agreeing with the views expressed by residents and strongly supported the confirmation of Tree Preservation Order 2365.

The Committee proceeded to ask questions and debate the report.

RESOLVED:

That, having taken into consideration the representations received, Tree Preservation Order 2365  ...  view the full minutes text for item 11