Oak tree felling at 157 Long Catlis Road, Parkwood, Gillingham

“The Tree Specialist Consultant outlined the application in detail for T1 - Oak - fell to ground and treat the stem to stop regrowth.”

“The Tree Specialist Consultant confirmed that while the applicant had submitted what was required to determine the application, the evidence provided to support the application was not comprehensive. It was normal, in an Arboricultural Report, to have various soil readings submitted at different depths, this only had one reading at one depth.”

“The Tree Specialist Consultant confirmed that the oak tree was approximately 150 years old, which was not even halfway through its life cycle.”

“Members acknowledged that the oak tree could draw out the moisture in the soil, however, this year had been a very dry summer, and this may have been the reason for this result.”

“The Committee considered the application noting that if the Planning Committee refused to fell the oak tree, the Council could be liable for costs.”

“Members stated that the oak tree was a valuable feature within the skyline and was part of the character of the area.”

“Following a question as to whether a replacement tree would need to be sought if the tree was felled, the Tree Specialist Consultant confirmed that as this oak tree was ranked as high due to the amount of water it absorbed, the applicant would not be able to provide the same carbon footprint to replace the existing tree. If the applicant could secure planting elsewhere, you could mitigate the loss, however, there was nothing referenced in the planning application.”

“Insufficient Monitoring: The level monitoring data spans a limited period and indicates movement within a normal seasonal range (maximum 2 mm). This does not support severe foundation movement attributable to tree roots or justify removal of a prominent protected tree.”

“Heave Risk Unaddressed: The oak predates the house, yet no assessment of potential heave risk has been submitted, contrary to good arboricultural and engineering practice.”