Three-metre woodland coppicing at Land East of Helmsman Rise, St Leonards-on-Sea

Why officers supported it

Officers considered the trees’ amenity value low to moderate and the public-amenity impact negligible, while the works would reduce property encroachment and benefit the woodland.

“Other Relevant Local Plan Policies. ·Other Matters. Amenity Value of the trees The Arboricultural Officer advises that the health and condition of the trees is unremarkable. As they are situated along the woodland edge to the rear of Nos. 1-19 Helmsman Rise, they are largely screened from public view by the existing residential properties. Consequently, their current amenity value is considered low to moderate.”

“The following informative note has also been added: 'All work should be carried out by a competent tree surgeon.' Conclusion The works are being proposed in accordance with BS3998: 2010, Recommendations for Tree work and in light of the above the application the proposed works are considered acceptable and is recommended for approval subject to conditions. The Human Rights considerations have been taken into account fully in balancing the planning issues. 7.”

Officer report

Public comments

One supporter said trees touched fences and overhung gardens, and sought protection and repairs for any accidental property damage.

“Representations In relation to this application, site notices were displayed to the front of properties Nos. 1-19 Helmsman Rise. One letter of support has been received, raising the following points: ·Some of the trees are touching the fences and overhanging the gardens of Helmsman Rise. ·Concerns have been expressed that the removal of these trees may cause damage to fencing and gardens.”

Officer report

Who spoke

The Planning Officer introduced the proposal, and the Arboricultural Officer answered members’ questions about regeneration, access and the cut material.

Members’ questions

Members asked about the woodland behind the trees, regeneration, access, repeat coppicing and how branches would be managed; there was no debate.

“Councillor Sinden began by asking what lay behind the scrub trees proposed for coppicing and whether they would regrow. Arboricultural Officer, Chris Wilken, explained that the works involved coppicing willow and sweet chestnut trees along the woodland edge, not complete removal. He confirmed that the trees would regenerate and that behind them was a denser body of woodland, although the area was relatively narrow due to residential development on either side.”

“Councillor Sinden then queried how access to the site would be achieved. [name withheld] confirmed that access would be via a gate on Helmsman Rise. He added that, as a woodchipper could not be brought onto the site, the coppiced material would be dragged back into the main body of the woodland and scattered to avoid drainage issues or flood risk.”

Minutes

The committee vote

Approval was proposed, seconded and agreed unanimously by the committee.

“There being no debate, approval was proposed by Councillor Rogers, duly seconded by Councillor Warne, the Chair called upon Members to vote whereupon the Committee:”

Minutes

The decision

The committee granted consent for the works, subject to a two-year deadline, BS 3998 compliance and the approved tree-location plan.

“To Grant Consent subject to the following conditions:”

“The works shall be completed in accordance with BS 3998:2010 Tree work - Recommendations.”

Minutes

Conditions and notes

The consent included wildlife protections, seasonal restrictions, use of a competent tree surgeon and safeguards for adjoining land and property.

“The applicant is advised that they must ensure the proposed works, hereby approved, do not contravene laws protecting wildlife including the Countryside and Wildlife Act 1981. Where the applicant is in doubt they should contact Natural England on wildlife@naturalengland.org.uk Telephone 020 802 61089 or Environment and Natural Resources on parks@hastings.gov.uk Telephone 01424 451107 prior to commencement of any works.”

“The applicant is advised to ensure that all tree works are undertaken in a manner that safeguards adjoining land, boundary fencing, and private property. Appropriate precautions should be taken to prevent accidental damage to neighbouring gardens or structures. Any accidental damage arising from the works is a civil matter between the parties concerned and should be rectified to the satisfaction of the affected landowner.”

Minutes