The TPO covers 5 London Plane trees of which 4 (T1 to 4) reside on my property and one on the adjacent amenity area (T5). Of the four trees on my property, three are near the northern boundary fence (T1-3) and one close to the house and garage. All four trees are within 5m of each other. During our ownership of the property since 1998 the trees have all grown in stature to a disproportionate size for the available space. I have tried to maintain over the last 27 years the 4 trees health by careful pruning, all of which has been covered by previous permissions granted by your office. The trees have, however, reached a point where the removal of one tree and a suitable replacement such as a plum or cherry in its place would protect the three remaining trees from the overcrowding now present as well as remove dangers to my property. The tree I wish to remove is the tree marked T1 on my plan as it is close to both mine and my neighbours (number 9) buildings, it has developed a distinctive lean towards my garage and my neighbours property and is frequently dropping branches. Tree 1's roots are also surfacing above the lawn in the direction of the house. I believe all the group of trees to be very stressed by the available space and are shedding an unusual amount of bark and leaves during the summer months. I have looked after these trees for many years and am sad to see their declining health. I believe removal of the one and its replacement with a tree such as a plum or cherry that won't dominate the earth and light available to the four remaining trees, including the one in the amenity area.

10 Bird Wood Court, Sonning Common, RG4 9RF