Tree expert stumped by council axe policy

Mick Cooper, who worked as tree officer for the council for over 20 years, claims the way the council is allowing trees to be cut down could lead to a felling free-for-all if property developers follow its example.

Mick, from Intake, was outraged to see council workers lop down a healthy sycamore on Armthorpe Road near the Benbow pub. The council says it was in response to residents’ requests for it to be removed.

He said: “The tree removed was a magnificent mature sycamore and there was absolutely nothing wrong with it. As Doncaster Councils tree officer of over 20 years, I inspected this tree on numerous occasions and each time certified it as being in a sound condition. I watched it being taken down and again noted its healthy condition.”

“Of course, the nearby residents adjacent to it have the right to a good quality of life but Doncaster Council should beware of setting such low standards for tree removal. The tree may have been overshadowing the adjacent lime trees but these would survive irrespective of the removal of the sycamore.”

Mick says he has been concerned about the loss of trees in other parts of the borough including sycamores on Station Road in Rossington and London plane trees in Milton Walk, Balby, and fears the council is setting a dangerous precedent. Mr Cooper left the council two years ago to work as a freelance consultant.

Jane Miller, Doncaster Council’s director for neighbourhoods, said: “A large tree in Intake has caused substantial problems to local residents gardens and a row of nearby young lime trees.

“In response to numerous resident complaints, and following a specialist assessment of the tree and surrounding area, the tree was removed, alleviating any problems to local residents and allowing the nearby lime trees to flourish and grow.”