Trees

Replacement Trees

In 2023 we had several trees die (several being around 30).  We raised this issue with L&Q and they replaced them but with specimens that were too small and species that were incorrect.  We raised the issue to the planning authority in LLDC.

L&Q have now undertaken to replace all of the trees that were under-spec.   Here is a list of trees to be replaced.  The list includes a minimum specification and the expected species.  You will see some which are yet to be specified this is explained below.  We do expect this work to be carried out in November. 

When working towards this agreement we uncovered an error.   A number of the trees originally planted by Taylor Wimpey sub contractors were not the species specified; Hornbeam were planted instead of Pin Oak.  The original intent of the planting plan was to create a line of Pin Oaks along the "green ribbon"  along Villiers gardens from Olypmic Park Avenue to Cadence Way.  We discovered that it was not simply a case of replacing all of the Hornbeams along Villers and Cadence because:

• The remaining trees around the saplings on Villiers and Cadence were well established and it would be extremely wasteful to remove those - and they are Hornbeams.

• It would be risky to replace a  mature tree with a sapling as young trees can, and often do, fail.

• The Pin Oaks on the estate are not doing well, many are distressed and in special care; some may die and we will have to pay for their replacement;  their environment is not helping them.  The expert opinion of the arborist from County Trees advised that because of this it may be sensible to not plant Pin Oaks.

Based on these arguments it does not make sense to replace those saplings on Villers and Cadence with Pin Oaks.  The LLDC planning authority agree with this and L&Q remain comitted to their obligation to plant the correct size of tree and a species to match those estalbished in place.   We dont know the precise species that will be installed yet - it will be variety of Hornbeam but we wait for County Trees to provide the correct information to us.  

We, the CMRA have made this common sense and reasonable compromise because it enables us to move forward with the replacement of the saplings sooner and is more likely to provide stronger, better trees over time.