Housing development plan prompts move to protect Mountsandel trees

THE council has moved to protect trees threatened by a housing development in the leafy Mountsandel area of Coleraine.

The Tree Preservation Order drawn up by officials covers a wooded steeply sloping bank between Mountsandel Road and the River Bann.

A mix Beech, Alder, Ash, Holly, Hawthorn, Sycamore and Birch trees have been protected because they are “considered to significantly contribute to the visual amenity and character of the area being visually significant from main views from Sandelford Bridge and Mountsandel Road,” according to a report delivered to members of the Planning Committee.

Tree preservation Orders (TPOs) are sought when the removal of trees or woodland is likely to have a significant impact on the local environment and its enjoyment by the public.

The committee report says priority is given to the protection of those trees deemed to be at immediate risk from active felling or damage from development on site.

The report says officers were asked to intervene following discussions around a planning application for a 47-unit residential development at the riverside site.