Poundbury Residents Raise Concerns Over Proposed Tree Planting

In a community designed following King Charles’ urban planning principles, residents have expressed apprehension regarding proposals for a “wall of trees” situated near their residences. These homeowners in Poundbury, Dorset, stated that they had been given prior assurances of “unobstructed countryside views.” Furthermore, they indicated that Dorset Council was declining to maintain their street, Peninsula Way, citing safety concerns stemming from the trees. The Duchy of Cornwall, the landowner, chose not to provide a statement, and its developer, CG Fry, did not reply to inquiries from the BBC. Andrew Cook, a resident, commented that the Duchy seemed to possess a “tree-planting imperative.” He characterized the Duchy’s approach in discussions concerning the planned double row of substantial bird cherry trees, which would impact eight properties along the town’s edge, as “intransigent, dogmatic and feudal.” Mr. Cook stated that these trees, which were absent from the developer’s promotional materials, are projected to reach heights of up to 25m (82ft), potentially obstructing natural light and jeopardizing building foundations. He presented the BBC with a letter from the council, which stated: “Although we continue to work with The Duchy, they have been advised that by planting those trees in the locations proposed, they will make the road essentially unadoptable.” Dorset Council issued a statement indicating its inability to adopt roads for maintenance purposes if they presented considerable safety concerns. The council further stated: “We are yet to receive a landscape drawing as part of the submission package from the developer.” It continued: “However, the drawings provided by the resident included a ‘wall of trees’ which could prejudice the ability to provide sufficient street lighting and vehicular visibility.” As per a residents’ association meeting held in October, the majority of roads within Poundbury are still unadopted and are privately maintained. The council also mentioned that Poundbury’s approved blueprints incorporated “tree-lined boulevards” with the aim of preserving the natural scenery. The former Prince Charles, during his tenure as the Duke of Cornwall, underscored the importance of landscaping and sustainability in his conceptualization for the development located on the outskirts of Dorchester. According to information on the Duchy’s website, construction, which commenced in 1993, is projected to conclude in 2028.