Concern over ancient trees at risk from new development in Landkey

A concerned North Devon resident has raised alarm over the proposed felling of ancient trees for a new housing development at Birch Road in Landkey. 

Paul Betty, who lives opposite the proposed development, reached out to the Gazette to express his worries about the threat to these significant trees, to which he believed to be over a century old and historically used as boundary markers for large estates in the area.

Mr Betty informed the Gazette that the background to this issue lies in a new development that has been granted planning permission for 150 houses, with initial access planned through the existing Harford View estate. 

He explained: “Originally, I sought a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) for these trees, believed to be over 100 years old, which are purported to be the old boundary markers of the large estates in the area. These are significant, non-indigenous trees and an integral part of the Landkey skyline.”

He further told the Gazette: “These trees have not been felled yet but are under threat as the promised TPO in 2021 was not applied. The issue here is that the trees are significant. The planners have given permission to fell. These are the only trees in the 800 metres of the frontage, so my contention is that the planners should have protected these trees and suggested either the original access or an access in another location."

In response to these concerns, the Gazette contacted North Devon Council for clarification. Tracey Blackmore, the Development Manager, said: “The site off Birch Road has outline planning permission for up to 150 dwellings and access following its approval at a committee meeting in April 2022. The three Corsican Pine trees along Birch Road are not subject to a Tree Protection Order. That said, it is recognised they are distinctive in their appearance and character and are valued by the local community.

“The council has been in consultation with the developer, and following on from this it is the intention for two of the three trees to remain in situ, with one tree to be felled to allow the construction of the site’s access in accordance with its planning permission.

“The felled tree will be replaced by six semi-mature root-balled trees which will mitigate the impact and enhance the tree cover across the site.”

The Gazette also reached out to Allison Homes, the developer responsible for the project, but they have not responded.