NEWS RELEASES
Important advice about tree felling
20th June 2007
A REMINDER for people to seek advice about the felling of protected trees or carrying out works to them is being given by Horsham District Council.
Protected trees are those subject to tree preservation orders and those in conservation areas.
The Council is very keen to encourage people who might be thinking about felling trees or carrying out works to trees that could be protected to ask for free advice first – it is well in their interests to do so.
A recent example is the unauthorised felling of a large sycamore tree in Storrington. While this tree was not subject to a Tree Preservation Order, it was in the conservation area. This landed a person in court.
Magistrates took a stern view of the matter, fining the person £1,000 with £500 costs. This also resulted in the person obtaining a criminal record; unauthorised removal of protected trees is a criminal offence.
Speaking recently, Will Jones, Arboricultural Officer at Horsham District Council, said:
“In general terms, it is important that protected trees are preserved and that any work on them receives the necessary consents beforehand.
“If anyone is in doubt, please get in touch with us for free advice.”
Further information and free advice about tree felling is available from Horsham District Council on 01403 215515, email: planning@horsham.gov.uk
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CONTACT: Richard Morris, Communications Manager
Email: richard.morris@horsham.gov.uk