Protection Order Granted for Trees Threatened by Busway Plans
A new protection order has been issued for trees at risk from busway construction
Cambourne, Cambridge, Coton Orchard, Bramley Apple Trees, Tree Protection Order, Biodiversity
Cambourne: So, there’s been some big news about a bunch of trees in Coton Orchard. A protection order has been granted to keep these Bramley apple trees safe from plans for a new busway to Cambridge. It’s a provisional Tree Protection Order (TPO), which means the trees get some extra love, but it could still be overridden if the busway gets the green light.
People really care about these trees, and they made a strong case to the South Cambridgeshire District Council. They pointed out how important these trees are for the environment and biodiversity. Plus, the Woodland Trust recognizes them as veteran trees, which adds to their value.
The proposed busway is part of a project by the Greater Cambridge Partnership. Last year, they submitted an application to the Department for Transport to get permission to build it. But, as you can imagine, not everyone is on board with this plan, especially since it would cut through Coton Orchard.
Some folks think it would be better to have the busway along Madingley Road instead. Initially, the council officers suggested not granting the TPO because it could be overruled if the busway gets approved. But that didn’t sit well with everyone.
Councillor Heather Williams, who pushed for the TPO, argued that if we don’t protect these trees now, we might never get the chance. She really wants to see these ancient trees and the wildlife they support preserved.
Anna Gazeley, whose family owns the orchard, chimed in too. She said it’s just plain silly to refuse protection for something just because it might be at risk. She emphasized that the busway isn’t a done deal and that there are people actively fighting against it.
She also mentioned that while a TPO alone won’t guarantee the trees’ survival, it’s a crucial step in protecting them. Losing these trees would hurt the local environment and biodiversity, which is a big deal.
Ms. Gazeley pointed out that the TPO is just one part of the puzzle, but it’s a vital one. Councillor Dr. Martin Cahn asked if she’d be okay with moving the trees if the busway goes ahead. She quickly shot that down, explaining that these trees are too fragile and have complex root systems that wouldn’t survive being uprooted.
Councillor Peter Fane said he’d look at the application based solely on the trees’ merits. He recognized their value to the community and felt they deserved protection. Other councillors agreed, noting that the TPO would also help protect trees not directly in the busway’s path.
In the end, the planning committee decided to grant the provisional TPO for the 12 trees. It seems like a win for those who care about preserving the local environment!