An Aboroculturist has been ordered to pay £569 by Leicester Magistrates’ Court for unauthorised work on two trees in Littlethorpe under Tree Preservation Orders (TPO.)

Thomas Bale, of Fleckney-based Long Field Tree and Hedge Care Ltd, undertook work on a Horse Chestnut Tree and Lime Tree in April. Both trees have been protected under a TPO since 2011.

A TPO protects trees which are considered to make a significant contribution to the local surroundings. Permission was granted by Blaby District Council for specific work, including the removal of minor deadwood, severing ivy and removing some smaller branches lower on the each tree.

Following an investigation by the Council’s Planning Enforcement team, the work undertaken was considered to be “far in excess of the consented works.”

Mr Bale pleaded guilty to breaching Blaby District Council’s 2011 Tree Preservation Order, contrary to the Town and County Planning Act 1990. He was ordered to pay a fine of £440, with £85 in costs and a victim surcharge of £44.

Councillor Sheila Scott, Portfolio Holder for Planning, Housing Strategy, Economic and Community Development, said:

“I hope that this prosecution highlights to residents that we will not accept the bludgeoning of protected trees in the district.

“Both trees have become unsightly for residents, with the Lime Tree looking like a tall bare stick. TPOs are in place to protect trees for the public’s enjoyment, and we will not hesitate to prosecute if such orders are ignored.”

Residents can find out more about TPOs, or report any works suspected of being in breach of an order by visiting www.blaby.gov.uk/planning.