Anger at loss of mature trees

Residents point out the eight foot board fencing recently erected enclosing the line of trees on Bridgefold Road

Spotland residents are angry at the possible loss of more mature trees in their area.

Since planning permission was granted for 150 homes to be built there by Seddon Homes on the former Alexander Drew site mature trees have been felled on Mellor Street and now mature trees, including an oak, on Bridgefold Road face the axe - eight foot board fencing has just been put up enclosing the line of trees.

Despite local requests, it is understood the the trees cannot be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) and once planning permission is passed then TPO's cannot be imposed - even if there are compelling reasons to do so.

Local resident Peter Knowles is very passionate about retaining and enhancing local habitats and amenities. He says: "The mature trees that are threatened are known to be a feeding habitat for nuthatches. One of the trees is an oak - one of only two in the area that provides acorns for the local wildlife. It would be such a shame to lose these trees."

Rochdale Online spoke to the Council planning department who confirmed that the planning department recommended refusal of the planning application but at the request of councillors it was taken to committee and voted through - against the officers' recomendations.

Ward councillor Peter Clegg expressed concern at Spotland Estate Residents Association meeting about the loss of trees and it is understood he was adamant that there was no mention of trees being felled in the planning application - Councillor Clegg was Chairman of Rochdale Township planning committee when the application was passed.