HOUSING plans have been criticised by Councillors for failing to take into account the wellbeing of protected trees.

Members of a Council Planning Panel said they could not approve proposals to build a new development of flats in Clayton because they would require at least one protected tree to be felled.

One Member said: “Someone needs to be a friend of the trees.”

Bradford Council’s Bradford Area Planning Panel were discussing a proposal to create new flats at Pasture Walk at this morning’s meeting.

The application, by Mr Malik, would see an existing flats building on the street expanded to create two apartments, and a new building containing four flats constructed at the end of the cul-de-sac.

A similar plan was refused earlier this year due to feats the new building would overlook existing properties, and that a protected tree would need to be cut down as part of the development. A further two protected trees would be “adversely affected” by the development.

Protected trees lead to housing plans being dismissed

The plans were re-submitted, with a slightly smaller flat building, and that application went before yesterday’s committee.

Members were told that although some parts of the plans had changed, there was still concern over the loss of a protected tree.

Agent for the applicants Michael Ainsworth said: “I fully take on board the officers’ concerns. We accept this will impact three trees, one of which we are proposing to remove. We would re-plant trees elsewhere in the development.”

He said a tree survey could be submitted once the plans were approved.

Planning officer Ross Hallam said: “The applicant was aware of the need for a tree survey - this information needs to be seen up front. We can’t assess the impact on trees without that information.

“If we approve it today, then it is approved - the trees could be cut down tomorrow.”

Councillor Mohammed Amran (Lab, Heaton) said: “I think the developer needs to withdraw this and come back when he has done a tree survey.”

Officers told the committee that there was very little opportunity to plant trees elsewhere on the site - and even then they wouldn’t replace the large tree needed to be cut down.

Councillor Riaz Ahmed (Lib Dem, Bradford Moor) said: “These trees have been around a long time.

“Someone needs to be a friend of the trees. If we don’t refuse this then we are doing a disservice to the area and the residents that this effects.”

Councillor Paul Sullivan (Cons, Bingley Rural) said: “Why haven’t we got this tree survey? It seems to be all important for this application.”

Mr Ainsworth added: “In principle you are right. It would have helped you make a more informed decision.

“Residents wanted something doing with this area, youths are regularly using that space for anti social behaviour. They feel housing built on this space outweighed the loss of the trees. They have been very supportive of the scheme.”

Councillor Rebecca Whitaker (Cons, Craven) said: “There is no point having tree protection orders if we don’t comply with them.”

The committee voted to defer their decision for three months, during which time the applicants have to produce a report detailing how the development will impact the protected trees.