Following the devastating removal of a number of trees from private land off Reap Hirst Road, Birkby, in December, Cllr Adam Gregg and local campaigner David Heathcote have been working together with local residents, Kirklees Council and the Forestry Commission to explore what can be done to ensure that the removal of the trees is fully investigated and that moving forward, trees and wildlife are fully protected.
Mr Heathcote said,
Although no protected trees were damaged or felled, we understand that legal thresholds relating to the removal of the trees may have been exceeded. The Forestry Commission is investigating this.
Cllr Adam Gregg said that
If the Forestry Commission find that the trees have been removed without the required licence, we demand that a full restocking obligation is imposed.
Cllr Gregg also paid tribute to environmental campaigners who protested in the pouring rain outside the Town Hall during last month's Full Council meeting to call for action on those responsible and for the habitats of local wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs to be protected.
"We have to conserve our green spaces and habitats. I, therefore, welcome the Government's latest consultation on proposals to help developments achieve biodiversity net gain which will ensure habitats for wildlife are enhanced, compared with their pre-development status."
To take part in the consultation, please go to: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/defra-net-gain-consultation-team/consultation-on-biodiversity-net-gain-regulations/
