Woman fined for cutting a tree - despite being told not to by the council

Jennifer Jacques-Williams of Victoria Road, Grappenhall, did the work last year – despite being told she couldn't by Warrington Borough Council.

She was fined at Warrington Magistrates' Court last Wednesday, January 29.

The council said an application was submitted to the council to remove the mature holly tree, situated within a conservation area, in January 2019.

The application was refused in March as the tree was considered to be of 'overall good health and had significant amenity value'.

Before work took place

The council also said that the crown of the tree was relatively contained and it was unlikely to grow to a size of concern that couldn’t be managed through pruning.

In July last year, a council officer in the area noticed extensive works had been carried out on the tree, which they then reported and the council’s enforcement team launched an investigation.

Mrs Jacques-Williams, 41, pleaded guilty to contravening the provisions of a tree protection order through carrying out unconsented work on the tree.

After the work

She was fined £750, with additional costs of £532.50 and a £75 victim surcharge.

Cllr Judith Guthrie, cabinet member for environment and public protection, said: “Landowners and homeowners should respect and always check for tree preservation orders before carrying out any tree or landscaping works.

READ MORE > Fly-tippers face £400 fines

“Tree preservation orders are put in place to protect trees and prevent activities that can be harmful to the tree or have a detrimental effect on wildlife. Anyone found guilty of breaching a tree preservation order may be taken to court and face a significant fine.”