Tree Cottage Bethesda Street Upper Basildon Reading RG8 8NU

Proposal

Felling of 2 x Sycamores - trees 5 and 6 on the map. A Tree Surgeon and Arboriculturalist have both independently advised the felling of Sycamores 5 and 6 for the reasons below: Both trees are significantly impacting the more significant species of trees behind them (Oaks, Yew and a Cherry) - there is clear evidence of those trees being restricted from light and air flow as seen from the visible holes in the canopies of the trees behind the sycamores where they have not been able to grow. In addition, the Arboriculturalist performed a survey of Sycamore 6 (written report attached) and documenting that the tree is unhealthy and advised us that it should be felled. In order to protect and allow the trees behind these two Sycamores to flourish, we would like to follow the professionals advice and fell both. Both the Tree Surgeon and Arboriculturalist gave their age estimation of the largest Sycamore (#6) at approx. 50 years old and Sycamore 5 as a few years younger. (The Arboroculturalist measured the larger Sycamore (number 6) with a Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) tape to assess the age of the larger Sycamore and used this to provide us with the age estimate). As you've previously shared with us, the Area TPO was put in place in 1966 and covers trees which were 7.5cm diameter or more at that time (which would mean trees would need to be 60+ years old to fall under it's remit) so we understand that these two Sycamores do not fall under this Area TPO and as a result, would also not require replacement.