The plans for the grounds of Gateacre Grange (see our September 2001 Newsletter) were considered by the Council's Planning Committee just before Christmas. Permission for the proposed new 'cottages' was granted, subject to the applicants entering into a legal agreement.  This agreement will state that no parts of the new dwellings shall be commenced until such time as:

(i) all the works of internal and external repair of The Grange have been completed, and

(ii) full details of the long term maintenance arrangements have been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority.

A likely casualty of the approved plans for Gateacre Grange is the very distinctive old beech tree alongside Rose Brow Cottages. Our objection to the proposed felling of this tree was overruled, the Council's Trees and Woodland Manager agreeing with the applicant that it is 'old and becoming dangerous, and that its removal is therefore justified'.

Also threatened - though for very different reasons - is a large pine tree in Hunts Cross Avenue, not far from Glenville Close. Planning permission for a new house (the last of three to be built within the former grounds of Aymestry Court) was granted some time ago. The Council imposed conditions to safeguard the tree: in particular specifying that any digging near the roots should be done by hand. However, building work has now started, and a JCB has been used to clear the site right up to the base of the tree. The Planning Department is, we are told, considering serving the owners with a Breach of Condition Notice, which carries a fine of up to £1,000 upon conviction in the Magistrates Court.

Finally, an application (ref. 01T/2807) has been submitted to fell the lime tree within the front garden of 2 Gateacre Rise, on the corner of Grange Lane.