A request has been made to protect orchard trees threatened by busway plans
Cambourne: There’s a bit of a stir over some orchard trees that might be in trouble. A group is pushing for a protection order for 12 Bramley apple trees in Coton Orchard. They’re worried these trees could be cut down for a new busway project.
The South Cambridgeshire District Council recently shared that even if a protection order is granted, it might not stop the trees from being removed. The Greater Cambridge Partnership is behind the busway plans, which aim to create a dedicated route between Cambourne and Cambridge.
Last November, an application was sent to the Department for Transport to get the green light for the busway. A public inquiry is on the horizon, and folks have been voicing their concerns, especially about the busway cutting through Coton Orchard. Some believe it would be better to stick to the road along Madingley Road instead.
The application for the protection order highlights the unique nature of the Bramley apple trees, which are noted for their ecological importance. However, the council’s tree officer pointed out that a protection order alone wouldn’t shield them from the busway development.
According to the report, a TPO can be overridden by planning decisions, making it a tricky route to take. The officer suggested that a better approach might be to consult on the busway’s exact path to try and save the most valuable trees.
Interestingly, the report mentioned that it’s not common to issue a TPO for trees in managed orchards like this one. If a TPO were granted, it would complicate routine pruning and management. The tree officer also noted that not issuing a TPO could lead to some backlash, and the decision will ultimately fall to the councillors.
They’re set to meet next week to decide on the TPO, so it’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds!
