The Committee considered the report of the Head of Development Management concerning Tree Preservation Order No. 5002/2024/TPO which was made to protect two Lawson Cypress trees growing within the front garden of The Old Mill House, Salts Lane, Maidstone, Kent following the submission of a Section 211 notice for their removal. 

It was noted that one objection to the making of the Order had been received from the owner of the trees.  However, the objections raised by the owner were not considered sufficient reasons to not confirm the Order or to raise sufficient doubt to question its validity or that of the assessment undertaken at the time of the making of the Order.  The two Lawson Cypress trees were considered to have significant amenity value, so their loss would erode the mature and verdant landscape of the area by a marked degree and give rise to significant harm to its character and appearance.  It was therefore considered expedient to confirm the Order to secure the long-term retention/protection of the trees.

RESOLVED:  That Tree Preservation Order No. 5002/2024/TPO be confirmed without modification as per the Order attached to the report.

Voting:  11 – For  0 – Against  1 – Abstention

Rolled over to the adjourned meeting on 27 June 2024.