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A landowner and their contractor have been prosecuted and fined over £18,000 for the unauthorised felling of more than 100 protected trees on land adjacent to Upshot Lane, Pyrford, by a judge at Guildford Magistrates’ Court.
During an initial hearing in October 2023, Burhill Development Ltd, who owns the land at Upshot Lane, pleaded guilty to the unauthorised felling of more than 100 trees protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPO), as well as causing damage to a further seven protected trees.
Meanwhile, their arboricultural contractor, P&A Services, who carried out the work, pleaded guilty to the unauthorised felling and causing damage to the protected trees.
A Tree Preservation Order protects specific trees, groups of trees or woodland that benefit the wider community.
Having both pleaded guilty, the landowner and contractor received substantial fines during sentencing at Guildford Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 7 March 2024.
- Burhill Developments Ltd were ordered to pay a total of £15,140; comprising fines of £11,000; a victim surcharge of £2,000; and council costs of £2,140.
- P&A Services were ordered to pay a total of £2,900; comprising fines of £1,000; a victim surcharge of £400; and council costs of £1,500.
Speaking about the prosecution, Beverley Kuchar, Woking Borough Council’s Strategic Director for Place, said: “We welcome the outcome of this important case. Whether you permit or cause wilful damage to our environment we will take legal action wherever necessary.
“It is important that landowners and their contractors take the necessary steps to understand what consent is required before commencing tree works. The status of the borough’s trees can be checked quickly and simply online. If in doubt, our arboricultural team can provide advice in advance of any works commencing.
“There is no excuse and, as in this case, failure to do so can lead to a criminal prosecution and significant fines.”
Read more about tree conservation, protection and how to check status of trees