Proposed works to remove a number of non-native conifer trees in order to let the native yew trees thrive. In addition, the remaining trees will be pruned as required in order to keep them in a safe and manageable condition and at a size proportional to their surroundings. T1, T2, T3, T4. These are 4 mature Lawsons cypress trees, around 7 metres tall, all in generally poor condition, with wind damage and broken branches evident in some. Each tree grows adjacent to an Irish yew tree, a more appropriate species for the location. Fell all 4 trees to ground level. T5. A group of trees consisting of 2 Western Red Cedar, 1 holly and 1 self-seeded elder. Although the conifers are not native, the group as a whole provides a useful screen from the road, and only needs pruning to manage its overall size and encroachment onto the churchyard. Remove elder tree. Reduce height of remaining trees by around 30%, and cut back away from graves on churchyard side only. Reduce height of group of trees by 4 metres maximum. Cut inside face away from gravestones by a maximum of 2 metres, leaving pruning cuts of 3 cm maximum. T6; T7. Two mature yew trees growing on either side of the churchyard entrance gate, partially overhanging the church roof and entrance door. Prune back the longest branches on the church side to give 3 metres clearance between the trees and the church building. T8. Mature Lawsons cypress, 6 metres tall. Fell to ground level. T9. Mature Lawsons cypress, partially fallen, storm damaged and ivy-covered. Fell to ground level. T10. Mature Cherry tree. T11. Mature holly tree. T12. Mature yew tree. All 3 trees are growing in a row close to the side of the church. Proposed work is to reduce the crown size of each tree by around 25%, to keep the trees at a manageable and proportional size, prevent encroachment onto the church building, and prevent the trees from competing with each other for space and light. T10. Reduce crown by 1 to 2 metres all over, leaving pruning cuts of 3 cm maximum. T11. Reduce crown by 1 to 2 metres all over , leaving pruning cuts of 3 cm maximum. T12. Reduce crown by a maximum of 2 metres all over, leaving pruning cuts of 5 cm maximum.

St. James Church, Bishopstone Road, Bourton, Swindon, SN6 8JQ