Agenda item

To give consideration as to whether the land to the south of the former Deuchars, Backworth Lane, Backworth Tree Preservation Order 2023 should be confirmed having taken account of the representations received.

The Committee considered whether to confirm the making of the Land to the South of the former Deuchars, 5 Backworth Lane, Backworth Tree Preservation Order 2023.

The Council had been notified of the intention to remove 5 sycamore trees to the rear of the former Deuchars, 5 Backworth Lane, Backworth.  It was noted that one tree was in fact a willow tree.

In response, the Council had decided to make a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) to protect the four sycamore and one willow tree.  Further, the TPO also included an adjacent sycamore tree that was considered worthy of protection.  The TPO was served in July 2023.

Seven objections to the TPO had been received from neighbouring residents.  The objections were on the grounds that:

a)  The trees should be removed due to damage to the boundary wall with Backworth Hall;

b)  The trees do not improve the visual amenity of the area;

c)   The trees negatively impact on light levels to neighbouring properties;

d)  The trees interfere with phone, TV and satellite signals;

e)  Tree debris is causing damage to vehicles; and

f)    The trees negatively impact upon mental health

The Committee considered the objections and the advice of the planning officers and the Council’s Landscape Architect before deciding whether to:

a)  Confirm the TPO without modification;

b)  Confirm the TPO with modifications; or

c)   Not to confirm the TPO

The Chair proposed acceptance of the planning officer’s recommendation as set out in the planning officers report.

On being put to the vote, 9 members of the Committee voted for the recommendation and none voted against with no abstentions

Resolved that the Land to the South of the former Deuchars, 5 Backworth Lane, Backworth Tree Preservation Order 2023 be confirmed without modification.

(Reasons for the decision: A Tree Preservation Order does not prevent the felling of trees, but it gives the Council control in order to protect trees which contribute to the general amenity of the surrounding area.)

Councillor J Cruddas left the meeting following conclusion of this item.