Concerns over plans to cut large sections off an "irreplaceable” tree

Last year Persimmon Homes applied for permission for work to a large tree in one of their developments in Thackley, off Crooked Road.

The housebuilder said the 22-metre-tall tree was suffering from Ash dieback, and a number of branches had either fallen off or were at risk of falling off.

There are plans to build a play area underneath the tree.

To make the tree safe, the application called for the height of the tree to be reduced by nine metres, and for the width of the branches’ spread to be reduced by up to six metres.

But Bradford Council has now refused the works to the protected tree, saying it is “nationally significant.”

A report written by AWA Tree Consultants on behalf of Persimmon and included with the application for works to the protected tree said: “There is an open cavity with decay and hollowing to the western side of the stem at the base and occasional other minor decayed cavities higher up the stem.

“The tree has already lost multiple large limbs, and the likelihood of further significant limb failure is high. The children’s play area (will be) situated directly under the canopy. The play area is intended to accommodate children aged approximately 4–12 years and includes multiple play items with a designated buffer and seating for supervision.

“Given that active play frequently occurs within this zone, the probability of serious harm from falling limbs is unacceptably high and must be mitigated with management. “Early signs of Ash Dieback are present. As this disease progresses, limb failure risk is likely to escalate, further compressing any safe retention timeframe.”

But a report by Council arboriculture officer Simon Keenan raises serious concerns about the proposals. He said: “The tree is highly significant in the landscape and is visible from a number of locations.

“The tree was provided significant surrounding greenspace in the original Persimmon layout. The area of greenspace was commensurate with the trees stature and importance in the landscape.

“The tree is a Veteran Tree as captured by the Woodland Trusts Ancient Tree Inventory. As such it is considered nationally significant and irreplaceable habitat.

“The value of the tree as irreplaceable habitat means that harmful works must be supported by highly compelling evidence.

“The Council’s opinion is that the proposed works, in combination with the prior damage already witnessed and recent Ash Dieback infection, would likely terminally damage the tree.

“Officers consider that the works would in fact leave the tree a visual blight in the landscape and a monument to bad practice.

“The proposed play area at very close quarters under the tree is not supported by Trees Team. Unauthorised damage to a veteran tree (caused by damaging roots) is at the landowner’s risk who should instead consider re-locating the play area to avoid such damage.”