Works undertaken by Network Rail to Trees Sunday 4th February

You might have seen the Facebook traffic on Sunday about the work that Network Rail carried out.There has been correspondence between Alex Margolies and the LBB and they are dealing with it.
Stephen Hodges has sent an e mail to Chris Ryder, the Principal Tree Office for the Council, and this is set out below.

Dear Chris

I am writing to you as Chair of the Links Estate Residents Association ( LERA)

I have seen correspondence between you and Alex Margolies concerning the work undertaken by Network Rail on Sunday 4 February on trees that were subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). Thanks for responding so promptly to Alex on this.

I am also aware that Council Officers visited the site Wednesday to assess the situation and observed that clearance pruning to approximately 6 metres. I should be grateful if you could advise me what the implication of this are. Is this permitted under the TPO?

As you are aware residents are very upset that Network Rail carried out this work in what appears to be a possible contravention of the TPO. There appeared to be no consultation, it was clearly planned in advance and the workers on site were dismissive and rude to residents when they were confronted with complaints about the noise and the work they were undertaking. You may be aware that LERA operates a Facebook page and we have many comments and complaints as well as evidence from residents during the time that the work was being carried out.

I look forward to your comments. I would hope that should it be established that Network Rail breached the TPO and the evidence and comments from residents suggest that they have, then the strongest action possible should be taken.

Yours sincerely

Stephen Hodges
Chair of LERA