Latest news with #TreePreservationOrder
South Wales Argus
a day ago
- Politics
- South Wales Argus
Welsh Government funding of £19m will help protect ancient woodlands
The funding aligns with the government's newly-outlined strategy to enhance the protection of Wales' ancient woodlands and trees. Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for climate change and rural affairs, said: "Wales' ancient woodlands are of international importance and have an important place in the landscape and history, protecting carbon-rich soils and seed banks beneath them. "They take centuries to form and are an irreplaceable resource." As part of this new approach, the government will focus on improving the resilience of temperate rainforests, as pointed out by the Alliance for Wales' Rainforests. Mr Irranca-Davies said: "Planning Policy Wales has been strengthened to provide a stronger framework for local planning authorities to secure the protection of ancient trees and woodland. "We are revising our Tree Preservation Order regulations as part of the work on the Planning (Wales) Bill." The Welsh government also made recent amendments to forestry legislation, which now allows Natural Resources Wales to better protect veteran trees and ancient woodland during felling operations. Further initiatives include the implementation of recommendations from the four-year review of the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution) (Wales) Regulations 2021. These will introduce measures specifically designed to contribute to achieving statutory emission reduction commitments. Under the Sustainable Farming Scheme proposals, optional actions will be provided to manage existing woodlands, including ancient woodlands, to increase their condition and resilience. The government will engage with stakeholders and consider budget availability before implementing these actions. The strategy also includes initiatives to improve air quality and reduce air pollution's negative impact on ancient woodland sites. The National Forest for Wales programme has provided support to restore and maintain ancient woodland through various schemes. Mr Irranca-Davies said: "Our approach does not intend to be an exhaustive list of all the possible threats and interventions, but a focus on the strategic priorities. "It brings together work across government departments and their stakeholders which strengthen protection for our irreplaceable ancient woodlands."
South Wales Argus
29-05-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Plans for two Newport homes with garages are rejected
The plans, by applicant D Gibby, were for the rear garden of a property on Ridgeway, Newport, but were turned down due to several issues. The site, which includes a single-storey garage, is next to ancient woodland, known as Coed y Glasllwch Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). A report noted the "significant alteration" of the site's ecological value due to the recent felling of mature trees. The proposed homes, both two storeys with four bedrooms each, raised several concerns. Highways officers objected repeatedly, citing safety concerns over the driveway width and lack of pedestrian visibility. The proposed waste collection arrangements were also deemed unsuitable due to the distance from the highway and the site's sloping terrain. Ecological and tree officers voiced major concerns over the absence of a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) and the unassessed felling of mature trees. The report said: "The removal of the trees has destroyed the habitats of several species, including bats, badgers, foxes, and hedgehogs." The ancient woodland, protected under a Tree Preservation Order from 2013, was another significant point of contention. The council's landscape officer noted the lack of any visual impact or green infrastructure assessment, stating the development did not align with the existing landscape or ecological context. The planning application also faced opposition from the public, with six letters of objection. Residents raised concerns about environmental degradation, overdevelopment, access and amenity impacts, and overlooking. One letter stated: "The proposal would result in noise disturbance, light pollution and compromise security of neighbouring properties." Councillors Drewett, Fouweather, and Evans also strongly objected, citing privacy loss, environmental damage, tree removal, traffic, and light/noise pollution. Cllr Drewett particularly emphasised the impact on ancient woodland and the character of the area, stating: "Development threatens local wildlife, trees, and natural habitats." The refusal of the application, listed under number 24/1034, was based on seven detailed reasons, summarised as overdevelopment and visual harm from the backland design, inadequate pedestrian safety and waste management access, detrimental impacts on residential amenity and biodiversity, inappropriate access design, and a lack of affordable housing contribution. The statutory expiry date was May 9, 2025, but the decision was marked as refused before this date.
Scottish Sun
17-05-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Chelsea star locked in neighbour row over plans to axe 40ft trees and build cinema & games room at his luxury home
Residents claim they are 'deeply concerned' by the planning application HOME GROUNDED Chelsea star locked in neighbour row over plans to axe 40ft trees and build cinema & games room at his luxury home CHELSEA goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has kicked off a row with neighbours after chopping down huge 40ft trees at his Surrey mansion. The Blues' stopper was given the go-ahead to extend his luxury pad near the club's Cobham training ground - complete with a cinema and games room. 4 Chelsea goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has become embroiled in a battle with his neighbour Credit: Rex 4 The footy star wants to rip out 40ft trees to extend his luxury pad Credit: Getty 4 The trees to be axed are reportedly decades old Credit: Supplied Planners at the local council told him he could chop down two trees to make way for the proposed development but neighbours say he has razed more to the ground - without permission. They claim the 30-40ft trees are decades old, although not protected by a Tree Preservation Order, and help prevent overlooking on the leafy estate. The former Fulham goalkeeper was initially granted planning permission for a front and rear extension including a ground floor family room, kitchen and breakfast room and cinema. He also wants to demolish a porch and chimney stack and add dormer windows for a fourth bedroom and games room on the second floor. Documents filed at Elmbridge Borough Council state that building work started last year but has not yet been completed. Bettinelli, 32, has now submitted amended plans for tree planting and landscaping to allow for the removal of trees. In a letter of objection, one resident wrote: "The initial proposal for 'bush and hedge pruning' turned into the felling of multiple 30ft trees, decades old. "This has significantly affected local wildlife (there were documented owls nesting) and privacy/light shading of multiple properties around. "The new proposal to replace four trees is well short of any remedial measure in my view and should be significantly enhanced." Chaos at Stamford Bridge as Djurgarden fans jump over barriers and clash in away end against Chelsea Another neighbour wrote: "More hedging has been removed to erect the fence. "This was not done by the neighbouring property. "And versus the previous plan, there is now less commitment to hedging than before. "As a reminder, 30-40ft trees were cut down without permission. "There should be no reduction in commitment shown on the plan versus the one before." Bettinelli joined Chelsea in 2021 to boost the Blues' goalkeeping ranks following the departure of Willy Caballero, having been out of contract at Fulham. He spent a decade at Craven Cottage, making 120 appearances for the Whites and also represented England's under-21 team earlier in his career. The 6ft,4in stopper bought his Cobham pad for £1.5million in September, 2023, before applying for a Grand Designs-style makeover. In another objection, the local residents' association said it was "saddened and deeply concerned that the developer, architect and builder have breached the conditions imposed on the allowed application". They added: "Mature trees provide benefits to humans and wildlife alike, trees also provide wildlife corridors to and from the surrounding green spaces, woods, commons and heathland of Cobham. "Trees also provide screening to neighbours' properties and garden amenity spaces which they should be able to continue the enjoyment of using for everyday activity without the perception of overlooking." Council officials are expected to make a decision on the trees later this month. Bettinelli's planning agent was approached for comment. Rules on fences and trees Fences: Height Restrictions: In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres. In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres. Shared Fences: If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement. If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement. Building Regulations: Ensure that any new fence complies with local building regulations and does not obstruct visibility for drivers or pedestrians. Trees: Ownership: Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour's property are their responsibility. Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour's property are their responsibility. Overhanging Branches: You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner. You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner. Protected Trees: Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines. Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines. Roots: If tree roots from a neighbour's tree cause damage to your property, you have the right to remove the roots. However, it is advisable to discuss this with your neighbour first to avoid disputes. Always consult your local council or a legal adviser for specific regulations and advice.
The Irish Sun
17-05-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Chelsea star locked in neighbour row over plans to axe 40ft trees and build cinema & games room at his luxury home
CHELSEA goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has kicked off a row with neighbours after chopping down huge 40ft trees at his Surrey mansion. The Blues' stopper was given the go-ahead to extend his luxury pad near the club's Cobham training ground - complete with a cinema and games room. 4 Chelsea goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has become embroiled in a battle with his neighbour Credit: Rex 4 The footy star wants to rip out 40ft trees to extend his luxury pad Credit: Getty 4 The trees to be axed are reportedly decades old Credit: Supplied Planners at the local council told him he could chop down two trees to make way for the proposed development but neighbours say he has razed more to the ground - without permission. They claim the 30-40ft trees are decades old, although not protected by a Tree Preservation Order, and help prevent overlooking on the leafy estate. The former He also wants to demolish a porch and chimney stack and add dormer windows for a fourth bedroom and games room on the second floor. Read more Sport Documents filed at Elmbridge Borough Council state that building work started last year but has not yet been completed. Bettinelli, 32, has now submitted amended plans for tree planting and landscaping to allow for the removal of trees. In a letter of objection, one resident wrote: "The initial proposal for 'bush and hedge pruning' turned into the felling of multiple 30ft trees, decades old. "This has significantly affected local wildlife (there were documented owls nesting) and privacy/light shading of multiple properties around. Most read in Football "The new proposal to replace four trees is well short of any remedial measure in my view and should be significantly enhanced." Chaos at Stamford Bridge as Djurgarden fans jump over barriers and clash in away end against Chelsea Another neighbour wrote: "More hedging has been removed to erect the fence. "This was not done by the neighbouring property. "And versus the previous plan, there is now less commitment to hedging than before. "As a reminder, 30-40ft trees were cut down without permission. "There should be no reduction in commitment shown on the plan versus the one before." Bettinelli joined He spent a decade at Craven Cottage, making 120 appearances for the Whites and also represented The 6ft,4in stopper bought his Cobham pad for £1.5million in September, 2023, before applying for a Grand Designs-style makeover. In another objection, the local residents' association said it was "saddened and deeply concerned that the developer, architect and builder have breached the conditions imposed on the allowed application". They added: "Mature trees provide benefits to humans and wildlife alike, trees also provide wildlife corridors to and from the surrounding green spaces, woods, commons and heathland of Cobham. "Trees also provide screening to neighbours' properties and garden amenity spaces which they should be able to continue the enjoyment of using for everyday activity without the perception of overlooking." Council officials are expected to make a decision on the trees later this month. Bettinelli's planning agent was approached for comment. Rules on fences and trees Fences: Height Restrictions: In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres. Shared Fences: If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement. Building Regulations: Ensure that any new fence complies with local building regulations and does not obstruct visibility for drivers or pedestrians. Trees: Ownership: Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour's property are their responsibility. Overhanging Branches: You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner. Protected Trees: Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines. Roots: If tree roots from a neighbour's tree cause damage to your property, you have the right to remove the roots. However, it is advisable to discuss this with your neighbour first to avoid disputes. Always consult your local council or a legal adviser for specific regulations and advice. 4 Bettinelli snapped up the £1.5million mansion in 2023 Credit: Supplied
Scottish Sun
15-05-2025
- Scottish Sun
Shock moment Storage Hunters star drives his CAR at neighbour in war over ‘communal' garden
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) THIS is the shocking moment a star from reality TV show Storage Hunters drove his car at a neighbour in a dispute over land. Daniel Hill, 43, was snapped on CCTV driving his BMW at the elderly woman in her 70s in the small village of Haslingfield, Cambridgeshire, on March 9 last year. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 Shocking footage shows the moment TV star Daniel Hill drove his car at his neighbour following a dispute over land 7 The Storage Hunters star can be seen racing his BMW towards his unsuspecting neighbour on March 6 last year 7 Hill appears to slam on the brakes just before getting close to his elderly neighbour Hill has been "at war" with residents in the town after his request for permission to build a home was denied, following a dispute with neighbours. The terrifying footage begins with Hill's neighbour leaving her driveway and walking into her front garden. Then, out of nowhere, Hill's BMW appears, with the TV star driving at speed towards his stunned neighbour. Suddenly, just as Hill mounts kerb, he slams on the brakes, coming to an abrupt stop just in front of his terrified neighbour. Then, as dust rises up from the car's sudden braking, Hill exits the vehicle and appears to talk with his elderly neighbour as they walk towards her home. Controversy began when Hill had acquired a plot of "communal" land in Badcock Road, which had been gardened by a woman in her 70s and her husband for 40 years – along with a second piece of land - for £18,000 in November 2023 at an auction of assets of the original estate developer who had gone into liquidation. Hill, who appeared in all five UK series of Storage Hunters from 2014 to 2016 as a 'main buyer,' said at the time that he had 'done the deal of the century' and claimed the local residents should have 'stuck their hand in their pocket' if they wanted the land. He later claimed the locals had been trying to drive him away since acquiring the land and accused them of 'harassing' him and 'causing criminal damage' to his property. But the residents countered, saying he had been 'terrorising' them with his heavy handed behaviour. Hill was arrested and bailed by Cambridgeshire Police in December 2023, accused of harassment, criminal damage and common assault, but was released at the beginning of March 2024 without charge. 7 Hill has been found guilty of driving without due care and attention Credit: Bav Media 7 The TV star was docked nine points on his licence and was also ordered to pay a £660 fine Credit: Bav Media 7 Hill has been engaged in a long-running 'war' with his neighbours over a 'communal' garden space in the town of Haslingfield Credit: Bav Media However, Hill further entered controversy when he removed a silver birch on the land, which had a Tree Preservation Order, and submitted plans for a new house. Neighbours inundated Cambridge Shared Planning with letters of objection, complaining it would be 'overdevelopment of the area". They also argued it would lead to 'loss of light and overshadowing' and pose a safety risk to pedestrians and vehicles as it is on a bend. In March 2024, Hill was denied planning permission because officers said the site was of an 'insufficient size' and in an 'inappropriate location.' Planning officers said at the time the site was 'of an insufficient size and an inappropriate location to accommodate the minimum amount of development to facilitate a single dwelling that would meet the nationally described space standards. The statement added: 'The introduction of any dwelling on the site would result in an undesirable form of cramped and contrived development in a prominent location that would be out of keeping with the character and appearance of the area and would give rise to harm to the amenities of neighbouring properties.' Over the last year Hill has been spotted back at the site, dumping dozens of tyres around his land to prevent people accessing it and burning hedge cuttings. HILL 'DELIBERATELY USED HIS CAR IN A THREATENING MANNER' In December 2023, Mr Hill said: 'I saw this cheap bit of land at auction. "That's how I make my money, I buy stuff cheap and try to make a profit on it. "Originally I thought it was one of those things where it would go crazy money, it's a beautiful village here. "I was watching the auction and it landed around the £5,000 to £6,000 mark and I thought, 'I've got to have some of this.'" He added: "I started bidding and got it for £12,000, obviously there are fees on top, happy days, I actually thought I'd done the deal of the century. "I was really happy with it. I come down here. I did all my research before. "I thought there's planning policy, support planning in the area, there's no TPO's, turned up here and started cutting the trees down, then wham all the villagers came out, almost like with their pitchforks and their angry faces, 'no, no, no, you can't have this land.' "I said, 'sorry I've bought it', I couldn't really understand what the problem was and ever since then they have been sour pusses. "They didn't buy it. I'm not going to buy any tears, this is not a poor area. "You've got accountants, bankers, all kids of very wealthy people here. "If they wanted the land they should have bought it." For his shocking driving behaviour, TV star Hill was found guilty of driving without due care and attention. He was given nine points on his licence and was ordered to pay a £660 fine, following his sentencing at Cambridge Magistrates' Court on May 6. PC Lazaro, from the South Cambs Neighbourhood Team, who investigated, said: 'There has been an ongoing dispute over land in Haslingfield. "Hill deliberately used his car in a threatening manner. "His driving fell far below that of a reasonable and competent driver. "It's fortunate that the victim was not crashed into and injured as a result."
