Campaign Group Considers Further Legal Action in Tree Felling Dispute

A campaign organization has indicated its readiness to pursue legal action again concerning the prospective removal of an ancient tree avenue. Previously, 16 out of approximately 50 lime trees located on The Walks in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, were felled as part of the Stanton Cross development project. This year, a High Court judge determined that the work should not have proceeded, following legal action initiated by the Wellingborough Walks Action Group. North Northamptonshire Council stated that it “recognised the public interest” in the matter and was continuing “to liaise with the applicant.” The developer was approached for a statement. Deputy High Court Judge Dan Kolinsky KC stated in May that the developer ought to have submitted a new application for the tree felling, instead of depending on applications previously approved by the former authority, the Borough Council of Wellingborough. Stanton Cross Developments, the developer, submitted new applications in April of the current year. The Wellingborough Walks Action Group reports that the council has provided “no update” since that time, despite over 500 objections having been lodged against the applications. The group has urged the council to schedule a date for the planning applications, to enable residents to speak before the planning committee, and to ensure any decision is “fully compliant with the High Court’s Judgement.” In a released statement, the group indicated its intention to “once again seek redress through Judicial Review” should it determine that the application process failed to adhere to planning law. The group further stated its desire to collaborate with the council and the developer “in a positive manner to find the earliest resolution to this situation.” Jason Smithers, leader of North Northamptonshire Council, commented: “We recognise the public interest in this planning application and continue to liaise with the applicant on their submission so it can be considered at our south planning committee.” He added: “As soon as we have a date for when the matter will be heard by the committee, the council will make all interested parties aware.” Smithers also stated: “We also appreciate the gravity of the judgement of the High Court in April and recognise the importance of adhering to the ruling as part of any decision-making process.”