Pollarding four willow trees at Laud Close, Reading

“Executive summary 1.1. To report to Committee on the proposed pollarding of four, Council Willow trees at Rose Kiln Lane / Laud Close, those being within G5 of TPO 2/05 (copy of TPO plan attached – Appendix 1). Policy Context 2.1.”

“March 2026 seeking consent for the pollarding of four Willow trees to 2m above ground level (application reference PL/26/0275). The trees are multi-stemmed or of poor form, have a poor rooting environment and are located direct adjacent to the weir, where trees need to be appropriately managed to avoid failure into the watercourse.”

“Community Engagement 6.1. A site Notice was placed on the bridge across the Holy Brook on Rose Kiln Lane on 20 March 2026 and left for the required 21-day period, i.e. until 10 April 2026. No objections or comments were received. The application has also been available to view via Public Access 7. Equality Implications 7.1.”

“At the meeting, concern was raised that the proposed tree works were likely to disturb rats which could cause a nuisance to nearby residential properties. It was therefore agreed that an informative be added requiring consultation with the Council’s Environmental Protection Team regarding potential pest control measures prior to the commencement of works.”

“That the proposed tree works be approved, subject to addition of an informative requiring consultation with the Council’s Environmental Protection Team regarding the consideration of appropriate pest control measures prior to the commencement of works.”