Agenda item

Felling of 1 No. Sycamore Tree to the rear of the property.

The Planning Officer, Paul Hopper, gave a detailed presentation on the report relating to the abovementioned planning application, a copy of which had been circulated (for copy see file of minutes).  Members noted that the written report was supplemented by a visual presentation which included photographs of the site.  The Planning Officer advised that Members of the Committee had visited the site and were familiar with the location and setting.  The application was for the felling of 1 no. sycamore tree with a recommendation of minded to refuse, with the final decision to be made and issued through powers delegated to the Head of Planning in accordance with the Committee’s direction.

The Planning Officer noted the application was as set out in the report and was at Committee at the request of the Local Member, Councillor A Napier.

The Chairman asked Mr K Todd the Applicant to speak in support of his application.

Mr K Todd thanked the Committee and noted the application was based on the proximity to residents on a bankside, with a recent tree fall having not had a great impact, though if this tree were to fall it would.  He noted that the application was on behalf of his late Mother-in-law, who had been terrified of high winds, this had had a material effect on her life.  He added that the tree in question could have substantial impact upon this property, as well as next door and the neighbouring substation. 

He added that pruning would make no significant difference and would just put off the inevitable.  Mr K Todd concluded by noting that the situation was potentially catastrophic.

Councillor G Bleasdale noted she walked along this way a lot and was against the recommendation.  She felt the tree was clutching the bankside and did not think there would be an objection in terms of removal if it was over an Officer’s home and was against the recommendation.

Councillor J Robinson noted he was also against the recommendation and felt, as it was within a group of trees, its removal would not be too much of a visual impact.  He added that paragraph 6 noted compensation and he noted the potential of what might happen if the tree were to come down.  He felt there was no option other than to overturn the recommendation.

Councillor G Bleasdale moved that the application be approved; she was seconded by Councillor J Robinson.

Councillor A Laing added that she was glad that the tree was not in her garden and that she was sure it would have to come down at some point

The Chair clarified that the final decision would be with the Head of Planning.

The Planning Officer noted a condition to replant could be included if Members were minded, however Members noted this was not required.

RESOLVED

That Members were MINDED TO APPROVE the application, subject standard conditions with the final decision to be made and issued through powers delegated to the Head of Planning.