Trees row grows as Wolverhampton homes plan lodged

The 62 homes off Wergs Road, Tettenhall, will include 46 four and five-bedroom houses and 16 two-bedroom flats, as well as space for 213 cars. Residents fiercely opposed the felling of trees when the idea was mooted last year, and it is expected they will fight the submitted proposals.

Six trees have been earmarked for certain felling but more are expected to be included when applications are made to the council to have them removed.

Those most at risk are near the proposed access to the development, behind the back of Birchfield Avenue.

Residents had welcomed the initial 62-home plans, but when they were amended to include felling trees – many of which have Tree Protection Orders – homeowners said the landscape would be ruined.

Tree expert Daniel Simpson, of Tree Reports Ltd, has liaised with residents on the issue.

His opinion was that the true scale of tree loss was not being made apparent. He said: "Considering the trees are legally protected, this should be of great concern to affected parties and the officers and councillors involved in the decision making process.

"This issue alone is sufficient to recommend the application is refused permission."

Jon Rowson, Planning Manager for David Wilson Homes said of the trees: "The proposal does include some tree removal and new tree planting which have been the subject of detailed negotiation with the local planning authority prior to submission."

The council was today unavailable for comment.

Residents have until January 17 to object. A decision on the plans will be reached by March 22.