Beech tree Yew tree The main proposed work is to remove a young mature/advanced semi-mature Beech tree in our back garden. The tree is in decline and less than 50% of the crown is still alive. This tree was inspected more than 5 years ago by the former VoWHDC tree officer (George Reid) who advised that it was severely tressed due to an earlier drought year and was unlikely to recover. The tree has continued to decline, much of the crown is now dead and increasinly large upper branches are breaking out. These represent a hazard (the tree is on the garden boundary and the prevailing wind could blow fallling wood into our neighbours garden). In addition to George Reid's observations, two tree surgeons have inspected the tree in the last week and both advised it should be felled (one said we should apply for work under the 5 day hazard rule). Whilst this tree would be removed, we have planted a holm oak and several Scots Pine nearby and these are now semi-mature (and matching the height of the failing beech). We have more recently planted a grove of birch trees (approx 15 no) in the same area. These are establishing well and there is little room for further tree planting. We don't plan to plant more trees, but intend to manage the establishing trees to maintain their contribution to our garden and the wider conservation area. In addition to the beech tree, we also propose to carry out very minor works to a yew tree on our front boundary to remove a low branch that overhangs the access road, is catching on bin lorries and is being damaged. We would also trim back a second branch to balance the crown and reduce overshadowing within our garden. Both elements of work would be carried out by local tree surgeons who have advised us on the proposed works. Remarks: Spec:

41 The Green, Steventon, Abingdon, Oxon, OX13 6RR