| Conditions / Reason for Refusal: |
Reasons for Refusal
01
The reason for refusal relates to the following matters:
• T3 sycamore- fell
• T4 beech- crown reduction to provide 3m clearance of building; remaining height 16m, spread 9m (4.5m radial)
• T6 beech- crown reduction with remaining height 18m, spread 11m (5.5m radial)
RMBC considers all tree works applications against industry best practice, as detailed in the latest edition of British Standard 3998 and Local Plan policy SP33 ‘Conserving and Enhancing the Natural Environment’ which states that: “The Council can protect individual and groups of trees by the declaration of Tree Preservation Orders where it is important in the interest of amenity and there is reason to believe that trees are under specific threat.”
In the case of T3, an application to fell trees covered by a tree preservation order should be accompanied with evidence showing the need for the tree(s) removal. This should either be a report showing:
a) that the tree(s) health or structural condition is so poor that pruning or other works can no longer retain the tree(s) in a safe condition.
B) That the tree has been proven to be causing structural damage.
This requirement is clearly stated on the TPO application form (Section 8). As this evidence has not been provided with the application, Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council refuses permission to remove the protected tree.
The proposed works to T4 and T6 go beyond the recommendations set out in British Standard 3998:2010 Tree Work – Recommendations, section 7.7.2 and therefore could lead to the decline in the amenity provided by the tree(s) to the local area. Healthy and structurally sound trees are capable of tolerating crown reductions of 30% of leaf volume, which is detailed as approximately 12% of branch length (allowing for variation in species). The proposed works go well beyond this maximum level and as no information has been provided to show special/exceptional reasons (subsidence damage, structural damage to the tree, etc.) for such a level of reduction the works are refused. The lesser works granted below equate to a removal of 30% of the trees’ leaf bearing structure; the maximum considered under BS3998.
Conditions imposed:
01
Consent is granted to the following schedule of works, and refers to the submitted applicant’s site plan:
Tree species Proposed works
• T1 sycamore• Fell
• T2 sycamore crown reduction & removal of limb extending towards property; remaining height 16m, spread 7.5m
• T3 sycamore Crown reduction leaving radial spread of 5m (reduce by 2m); 10m overall spread. Remaining height of approximately 15m
• T4 beech crown reduction to provide 2m clearance of building; remaining height 15m, spread 5m radial/10m overall
• T5 laburnum remove crossing and dead limbs; reshape- remaining height 5m, spread 5.5m
• T6 beech Crown reduce by 1-2m (remaining crown radius 14-16m (7-8m radial) and remaining height 20m, to suitable pruning points.
02
For removed tree T1, a suitable replacement tree must be planted as close to the existing tree as possible, if possible. Otherwise, an alternative location on the site should be discussed with Rotherham’s planning department.
The replacement trees must be planted within 12 months of this letter; the trees should be of a similar species to those removed and of a size not less than 10-12cm girth when planted.
It is recommended that planting takes place between the months of October and February but being careful to avoid periods of waterlogging or hard frost.
If the new tree’s species is different from that removed then Rotherham’s Planning department must be consulted before planting is completed.
03
All tree works detailed in condition 1 shall be carried out in accordance with British Standard 3998: 2010, unless otherwise stated in the application.
04
Please note the authorised works should be completed within 2 years of the decision notice otherwise a new application for consent to carry out any non-exempt tree work will be required.
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