Removal of two protected trees at 9 Wellington Gardens, Newton-le-Willows, St Helens

“This application seeks the removal of 2 no. London plane trees adjacent to the property, 9 Wellington Gardens, that are protected under the TPO.”

“The application site comprises land to the side of an end-of-terrace dwelling within the Wellington Gardens cul-de-sac, with 2no. plane trees located to the immediate south of the property which is separated by a brick boundary wall. The trees are located on a section of adopted highway directly adjacent to the side garden boundary of number 9 Wellington Gardens.”

“Ground upheaval and the lean of the boundary wall are evident from the application images and site visit photos.”

“The growth of the 2 no. plane trees has caused damage to the boundary wall between the application site and the public highway resulting in a dangerous lean which may cause a safety hazard to the occupants of the site and the wider public. This problem has also resulted in an insurance claim. Accordingly, the successful retention of the trees would not be possible as the instability and hazard of the boundary wall would worsen over time.”

“The adequate replacement of the 2 no. plane trees has been discussed between both the Trees & Woodland Officer and the Team Manager for Area Streets & Grounds to ensure that appropriate replacement of the trees is made. A planning condition is recommended to ensure replacement planting is secured to mitigate the loss of the two trees in this instance.”

“Trees & Woodlands Officer (16.07.2026) – Supports the proposed tree works subject to condition that the works are carried out to British Standard BS 3998 (2010), with work only taking place between the 31st of August and the 31st of March.”

“Letters were sent to neighboring properties, and a site notice was posted. At the time of writing this report, no representations had been received.”

“P/2026/0359/TPO 9 Wellington Gardens, Newton-le-Willows Removal of 2no London plane trees adjacent to property under TPO.”

“Grant consent subject to the following conditions, with authority delegated to the Head of Planning Services to add, remove or amend conditions as they deem necessary:”

“All work carried out on these trees should be carried out to British Standard BS 3998 (2010) with work only taking place between the 31st of August and the 31st of March to avoid disturbance to breeding birds.”

“Within 3 months of the date of this decision a scheme for mitigatory planting of two mature trees shall be submitted to the Local Planning Authority for approval. Any tree which within a period of 5 years from the date of planting dies, must be replaced with new tree(s) of the same species and specification unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Council as Local Planning Authority.”