2024/2196Planning Application 2024/2196

Rationale for Removal of 3 out of 6 Sycamore Trees, Rear Garden Flat 1, 5 Rodway Rd. SW15 5DN Tree Species: Sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) Number on Sketch Plan: T1, T2, T3 Description of Proposed Works: Tree T1: Complete removal of tree, inc. stump, to ground level. Tree T2: Dito Tree T3: Dito Compelling Rationale for Removal: 1. Safety Concerns: The 3 sycamore trees (T1, T2, T3) have grown significantly, posing a potential risk to nearby buildings and properties. Falling branches during adverse weather conditions could cause damage and pose a risk to residents. T1 has an aggressive lean towards building, posing several hazards. 2. Damage to Property: The extensive root systems of the trees might cause damage to garden infrastructure and interfere with building foundations, leading to costly future repairs. 3. Light and Airflow Blockage: The dense canopy of the sycamore trees significantly reduces natural light reaching the rear garden and adjacent buildings. This affects the quality of life for residents by creating a dark, damp environment conducive to moss and algae growth. Restricted airflow prevents proper ventilation, essential for maintaining a healthy living space and limits lawn growth 4. Negative Impact on Garden Use: The overgrown sycamore trees dominate the garden space, limiting usable areas for residents. Removing these trees will enhance garden usability, allowing for better landscaping, recreational use, and the potential to plant more suitable, lower-maintenance vegetation that aligns with the conservation area???s character. 5. Biodiversity and Aesthetics: While sycamore trees are part of the local flora, their dominance can negatively impact biodiversity by outcompeting other plant species. Removing the 3 sycamore trees will create an opportunity to introduce a variety of native plants and trees that support a wider range of wildlife, enhancing the ecological value and visual appeal of the garden. 6. Proactive Maintenance: Proactively removing the sycamore trees before they cause significant damage aligns with best practices for property and garden maintenance. This approach ensures that the garden remains a safe and enjoyable space for all residents, avoiding more invasive and costly interventions in the future. Conclusion: The proposed removal of the 3 sycamore trees (T1, T2, T3) in the rear garden of Flat 1, 5 Rodway Road, is necessary to address safety concerns, prevent property damage, improve garden usability, and enhance biodiversity. The works will be carried out with care to ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding environment to keep the balance in the conservation area. This rationale, combined with a clear and full specification of the works, supports the necessity and urgency of removing these trees, ultimately benefiting the residents and the conservation area as a whole. There will still be plenty of big trees in the garden and surroundings

2024/2196