Villagers win battle over pine trees at Tottenhill

West Norfolk Council refused permission for the 60ft pines at Tottenhill, near King's Lynn, to be felled earlier this year.

The authority's in-house tree expert said there was no evidence that the specimens, on Willow Close, were "liable to failure" and they made "a significant positive contribution to the character of the area".

But now the council has agreed a fresh application to reduce the height of three of the trees.

People living on Willow Close fear the trees could fall onto their homes (Image: Chris Bishop) An officer's report said: "The applicant has long been concerned about the height and safety of these pine trees.

"Whether these concerns are valid, because the trees show no indication of a high probability of failure, and the threat of such a failure is low risk, the concerns of the application are real, to them."

The report adds 16 statements of support from neighbours had been received - almost every household in the close.

Hugh Hazelton, who applied to have the trees in his garden crowned, said: "Neighbours cite the fact that global climate changes are making severe winter storms more and more frequent.

Residents say the trees' roots are damaging the pavements (Image: Chris Bishop) "They request us to do something about the trees. The very existence of these trees so close to their properties is generating fears, thus detrimentally-affecting their enjoyment of their properties."

Mr Hazelton said the trees "sway and lurch alarmingly" in high winds and are within "easy striking distance" of a number of properties.

The report concluded: "By carefully reducing their crowns, some of their visual appeal may be retained while mitigating these issues, allowing residents to fully enjoy their homes and gardens without the risk of damage or diminished quality of life.

"This approach ensures that the trees remain part of the landscape while promoting a healthier, safer, and more harmonious living."