T8 and T9 are Ash trees protected under TPO 1996: No.186. Since purchasing the property in 2023, we have monitored both trees and they have…

Official description

T8 and T9 are Ash trees protected under TPO 1996: No.186. Since purchasing the property in 2023, we have monitored both trees and they have continued to decline. The previous owners discussed their condition with the Council under application R16/0289, and the Councils report at that time confirmed major structural failures and poor condition in both trees. T8 has shown no meaningful new growth since the earlier pollarding and now has extensive woodpecker damage, hollowing, beetle attack and fungal activity on the trunk and exposed roots, and progressive decay. The remaining stem is no longer structurally sound. T9 has some new shoots but still has the historic issues including tear out wound from the 2015 compression fork failure, an unbalanced canopy and a weakened structure. Furthermore there is now evidence of significant beetle attack around the lower trunk section resulting in hollowing, decay and large areas of bark loss. The tree is also close to our summerhouse, creating a risk of serious damage or injury should further failure occur. Although the garden is large, it already contains a high density of mature trees, including two substantial Horse Chestnut trees (T6 and T7) in close proximity to T8 and T9. These dominant trees already provide the main canopy cover and screening. Any new planting in this area would face significant competition for light, water and nutrients, and would not establish successfully. We therefore request removal of T8 and T9 on the grounds of safety and property protection.