By Trees outside Old Clee Church may be cut after complaints from neighbour
Three trees outside Old Clee Church may face the axe after a neighbour has complained that they reduce light and the branches are covered in “smelly” droppings.
The trio includes two Sycamore and one lime tree and have been living in the Old Clee churchyard for generations.
The complainant wishes for the trees to be trimmed with branches removed as they cause a “health risk” with falling branches and damage caused to her roof and guttering.
Falling branches has left the driveway unusable through fear of serious damage to their car, while tree sap has left it “very slippery.”
There are also concerns about the branches being covered in pigeon droppings which has left large portions of the back garden unusable.
She also complains that one tree reduces light into the kitchen.
The homeowner appreciates that this is a sensitive topic as these trees are an important part of local heritage, saying:
“We appreciate the fact taht these trees are covered by a PTO (tree preservation order), and we fully understand and support the preservation of these trees.
We understand how they are needed to help our climate, improve our environment and attract wildlife to our area.”
However, they have complained that the lack of maintenance has “caused a negative impact on our mental health and wellbeing.”
The request is currently under review by North East Lincolnshire Council’s tree officer Paul Chaplin.
A member of the public has submitted a rebuttal to the council:
“Bird droppings and marginal loss of light seem a small price to pay for the privilege of living adjacent to such a beautiful churchyard.
“These are attractive and apparently healthy trees which are important to this part of the borough and provide habitat for wildlife, including songbirds.”
“If surgery is approved, I hope it is not so radical that it distorts the shape and health of the trees to
the detriment of the setting of this fine church.”
