Proposal Description: Item 11: 1206 Poplar – Remove; 1207 Poplar – Remove; 1209 Poplar Remove; 1210 Poplar – Remove; 1211 Poplar – Remove; 1212 Poplar - Remove.
Replacement planting to be agreed within the planning authority
It was noted that the majority of the committee, had visited the application site on 16 April 2024 to enable members to observe the trees in situ and to gain a better appreciation of the proposals.
The application was introduced. Members were referred to the Update Sheet which outlined that photos had been provided by the agent which were displayed at the meeting.
During public participation, Ben Abbatt (agent) and Anita Gibson spoke in support of the application and answered Members’ questions thereon.
Councillor Porter spoke as Ward Member. In summary, Councillor Porter raised the following points:
· Stated that it was a rare occurrence that she would speak in support of an application seeking the removal of trees. However, the poplars on site were extremely tall and the due to recent events, she was seeking their removal on the grounds of community safety. Recently trees close to the highway had snapped off close to the base due to significant flooding and subsequent high winds common in this area, which had caused damage to properties and resulted in a potentially life-threatening situation and had contributed to community support for the trees to be felled.
· Insurance failed to provide cover for the cost of road closures required to remove the fallen tree as an ‘act of god’ and the damage caused, therefore there was a high financial cost to the owner.
In response to questions, the council’s Senior Planning and Litigation Lawyer clarified the principles regarding the ability to claim compensation should future loss or damage occur as a result of the council’s refusal to remove a tree preservation order(s), subject to limitation periods and exceptions.
The Committee proceeded to ask questions and debate the application.
RESOLVED:
The committee agreed to refuse permission for the reasons set out in the Report.