T1 Dead/dying Maple cut to ground. T2 Maple, has large open cavity at base with evidence of Honey Fungus, (degraded toadstools). Cut to ground.

1. T2 Norway Maple (T32 TPO no.69) - Refusal to grant permission to remove. Tree and site context The tree is a mature specimen and is located adjacently to the eastern boundary of the property. The main stem is 10 metres away from the property at its nearest point. The tree sits alongside other TPO trees (e.g. Sycamore, Beech and Maple) and collectively they serve as an attractive prominent visual amenity and landscape feature as viewed from Overslade Manor Drive. The main stem bifurcates at 2.5 metres and the overall height of the tree is upwards of 14 to 15 metres with a radial canopy spread of 3 to 4 metres. The tree has been previously reduced at approximately 12/13 metres in height with regrowth emerging from the previous pruning points giving it a relatively compact form. The main stem of the tree has a diameter of 67cm. There are occluded pruning wounds to the lower stem where branches have historically been removed to raise the canopy giving 4 to 5 metres clearance from ground level. There appears to be a good union at the point of bifurcation and overall good vitality with no obvious major defects noted within the crown of the tree. At the base of the main stem on the north eastern side is an area of dysfunction/decay with nectrotic bark approximately 30cm wide (compared to the overall circumference of tree stem 210cm) and extending 80cm from ground level up the main stem. Reasons stated to support the application to remove the tree The application stated that the tree; Has large open cavity at base with evidence of Honey Fungus, (degraded toadstools). No further evidence or diagnostic information was provided to support the application in relation to the levels of decay/dysfunction in the tree and the future safe retention of the tree. Whilst an area of dysfunction/decay and necotic bark is visible at the base of the tree to the north west, it appears that this is relatively isolated to this area compared to the overall size and circumference of the lower stem. There were no signs of honey fungus. The rest of the tree base and lower stem was tested with a sounding hammer indicating no further decay. A probe was inserted into the area of decay but only to a short depth. Conclusion On the basis of the evidence put forward and following an inspection of the subject Maple tree it is concluded that there is insufficient evidence to justify its removal. Therefore, the application to remove the tree is refused. T1 (T35 TPO no.69) - Sycamore - Remove to ground level and grind out stump. Reason: Tree in poor condition. Major die-back/decline within canopy. Minimal foliage bearing branches remain. On completion of works 1 new Maple tree (Acer platanoides) must be planted, staked and tied as appropriate, planted at 2-3 metres height and 8/10cm circumference in the same position or adjacent to T1. If the replacement tree (or any other tree planted in replacement of it) is removed, uprooted, destroyed or dies, another tree of the same size and species must be planted at the same place, or in accordance with any variation for which the local planning authority give their written consent. Please inform the tree officer when replacement tree has been planted so we can update our records accordingly.

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