Council steps in to protect trees
A prime area of land just off Earlham Road looks set to be sold off to developers.
But as the site has many mature trees, local people have called for them to be protected.
As reported last month, land at St John’s RC Infants on Heigham Road is to be sold off by the Catholic diocese. Pupils at the school will move to a new primary school on the site of St Thomas More RC Junior school in September 2013.
With development on the horizon, the council have stepped in to ensure some of the large trees are protected, by placing temporary tree protection orders on them. A council spokesperson said: “Historically the school has been responsible stewards of their tree stock. A change in property ownership [..] can mean that the council looks at putting measures in place to make sure treasured trees are preserved.”
Local resident, Galit Hart, who is among those who have lobbied the council, said: “I’m happy that it’s being taken seriously and hope that the eventual outcome is that they’ll become made permanent orders. We will be keeping an eye on it and future developments.” She added her main hope is that the council would listen to residents’ views as the site is developed.
Temporary tree protection orders last for 6 months, in which time a decision will be taken over the future of the trees.
Comment
