A Goole property developer must pay £6,119 after being found guilty of unlawfully removing a mature cherry tree protected by a Tree Preservation Order.
David Wilcock appeared at Beverley Magistrates Court charged with cutting down and destroying a tree specified in Schedule 1 of Tree Preservation Order (Old Goole No. 3) 2008, contrary to section 210 (1) of the Town and Country Planning Act.
He pleaded guilty and ordered to pay a total of £6,119, made up of a £4,000 fine, £719 costs, and a £1,600 victim surcharge.
The Magistrate noted that this was a serious measure and hoped that the fine will be a signal to others to avoid undertaking similar actions.
The case was brought by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s Planning Enforcement team after a report from a member of the public.
Many trees in the East Riding are protected by Tree Preservation Orders, or by their presence within a Conservation Area. It is a criminal offence to cut down, uproot, lop, top or prune, or otherwise wilfully damage or destroy a protected tree without permission from the council.
Councillor Gary McMaster, cabinet member for planning, housing and infrastructure, at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Trees provide numerous benefits to local communities, enhancing the lived environment, and reducing air and noise pollution. They are also vital for biodiversity, providing habitats for insects, birds and other wildlife.
“The council takes protection of trees seriously and takes robust action where illegal behaviour occurs.”
