Valebrook Close Tree Removal Plan Rejected

Shepway Council has rejected a planning application to remove trees and bushes from a site between Valebrook Close and Horn Street. The rejection on Wednesday has been welcomed by Valebrook Close residents who had objected to the proposals, and many of whom where at the meeting.

Cheriton Town Councillor Tim Prater spoke against the application on behalf of Folkestone Town Council. The Town Council had previously voted to object to the removal of the trees, as it would destroy natural habitats and affect the look of the green open area.

In his presentation to Shepway Council Planning Committee, Tim said:

"These are healthy trees and bushes in a rural setting. They form a habitat for wildlife, are a valuable source of food for wildlife in the winter months and are outside the settlement boundary.

"No purpose seems to be served by their removal. The loss of these trees and bushes will further spoil the look of an area that has already suffered significant clearance and damage in the past couple of months."

After the meeting Tim Prater was pleased with the move.

"I've been pleased to work with Valebrook Close residents to protect the trees and bushes. Working together, we've got a good result tonight, and local people should be proud that their protests have won the day.

Separately, Tim has also reported the blocked access to the public footpath to the side of the Valebrook Close site.

The Public Right of Way Officer has now attended and inspected the path, and has said he is objecting to future development on that site until the path has been reinstated to its original condition. He also reports that he is taking legal action to reinstate the path.