Following the parkswatch post on the illegal felling of trees at Carrbridge, in the Cairngorms National Park (see here), here is an example of a felling application of trees with Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s)

The following are extracts for TPOs from LL&TNPA’s weekly planning list:

The second extract is the Decision:-

I note that 29 Jan – 18 Feb = 15 working days inclusive is a very rapid application turnaround.

I am not saying that the application/decision is illegal but what is of particular note, however, is the address of the applicant which just so happens to be the Headquarters of LL&TNPA!  Why not say so? Why has the LL&TNPA hidden behind the undisclosed identity of an employee? This encourages one to think that there must be some hidden agenda,  particularly as the accompanying map would seem to indicate that the trees in question are not actually on the promontory itself but appear to be near the top of the footpath beside the wooded area leading from Old Luss Road to Lomond Shores. Confusing or what?? This again begs the question why!!

The Tree Report Assessment states “The proposed works are minor required to improve clearance over the walkway … “. Why, then is it necessary to fell the trees and not just lop them? Why is there no photographic evidence to support the justification for felling? The Report goes on to state “… no replacement planting is required … “. How does this support the importance and contribution of trees to biodiversity?

Given the past illegal fellings in this area (see here), which as far I can find, has never yet been resolved by Police Scotland, it is surprising that LL&TNPA have not submitted this application in their business name and that it is a delegated (DEL) decision. Particularly when the TPO’s were only applied last year by LL&TNPA after the illegal felling event.

Further statement on unauthorised tree felling  ( NEWS LL&TNPA).   Following the statement issued on Wednesday 21st March on the unauthorised felling of trees on the north side of Drumkinnon Bay near Loch Lomond Shores, we have now also taken action to put in place a Tree Preservation Order.  Read more 

The main thrust of this article is that to the uninitiated the Application could be interpreted as coming from a private individual as opposed to a Park employee. Surely, given the sensitivity and recent history of the area concerned, openness and transparency should be of paramount importance.

LL&TNPA Board members complain at Board meetings about the number of Freedom of Information Requests (FOI’s) they get and how time consuming they are for their staff. No wonder there are so many!!