School Lane Fressingfield Suffolk IP21 5RU

1. 1.The tree subject to the application is a large prominent specimen that has high amenity value contributing to both the aesthetic and ecological qualities of the area. It is also an important component of green infrastructure having been incorporated within recent residential development as a significant landscape feature. The proposed felling of the tree is based upon the grounds that it is hazardous. The application lists several factors to suggest this including internal hollowing, an assumption of significant root damage, the possible alteration of wind loading and proximity to residential dwellings currently under construction. Despite these concerns, it has not been sufficiently demonstrated that the tree's condition or position presents a substantiated or imminent hazard. This is based upon the following assessment -  Lack of credible arboricultural evidence: The t/R ratio system of assessment for internal hollowing cited in the accompanying report has frequently been questioned within the industry and is now commonly considered to be unreliable when making decisions about the likelihood of tree failure.  Absence of on site assessment: Although the claim of significant root damage being caused during recent construction activity cannot be discounted, it is theoretical and unsupported by adequate on site investigation. It should be noted that this concern was subject to planning control measures intended to prevent the likelihood of such harm being caused. Furthermore, there is no indication of soil cracking or root plate movement commonly associated with such an issue, particularly, as stated, the tree has recently withstood high winds. The distance of the excavation that has taken place is also likely to be sufficient to avoid structural roots necessary for tree stability.  Insufficient evidence of hazard: The altered wind loading and proximity to the dwellings under construction are noted but are unsubstantiated reasons that do not provide a compelling justification on their own to warrant felling the tree. In conclusion, the refusal is based on a lack of substantive evidence that the tree poses a genuine hazard. Although the issues raised are not discounted, the council consider that the justification for felling such a valuable tree is not proportionate or justified on account of the information provided. Reconsideration of the proposal remains open but would be subject to a further application and stronger supporting evidence. Right of Appeal: You have a right to appeal against the refusal of consent or on any conditions imposed. If you wish to do so you must contact The Planning Inspectorate within 28 days from the date of this decision notice. The Planning Inspectorate, Trees and Hedges, Room 3A Eagle Wing,Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN Guidance for appellants is available via this link: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file /894809/TPO_Guide_for_Appellants_-_June_2020.pdf Compensation: If you suffer any loss or damage as a result of this refusal of Consent, you may be entitled to recover from the Council compensation. If you wish to make a claim you must do so within 12 months from the date of this decision (or, if you appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, within 12 months from the date of his decision). Claims should be made in writing to Chief Planning Officer, Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich IP1 2BX Babergh District Council Mid Suffolk District Council Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich IP1 2BX Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich IP1 2BX This relates to document reference: DC/25/05391

From the council's decision notice.

Postcode

IP21 5RU

Application type

Tree Preservation Order - Works Related

Scale / size

Small

Parish

Not Available

Date validated

10 December 2025

Consultation expiry

31 December 2025

Consultation start

10 December 2025

Consultation end

31 December 2025

Last date for comments

23 January 2026

Target decision date

21 January 2026

Agent

RM Architectural Ltd t/a Roberts Molloy

Agent address

Homestead The Street Horham Eye IP21 5DX United Kingdom

Case officer

David Pizzey

Statutory period

42 days

Planning Portal ID

PP-14553830

Documents

11

Constraints

2