An Independent Planning Inspector has backed Brecon Beacons National Park Authority’s decision to issue a Tree Replacement Notice (TRN) to Wyro Developments Ltd to replace seven cherry trees felled in the Talgarth Conservation Area. 

The Appeal Decision was received by the National Park Authority yesterday morning from the Planning Inspectorate, dismissing the Wyro Developments Ltd appeal and upholding the Tree Replacement Notice (TRN).  The decision follows a lengthy battle with Wyro Developments Ltd to replace seven mature cherry trees which were felled in the Talgarth Conservation Area without permission in September 2008.  

Mr Gwynedd P Thomas, the appointed Planning Inspector said that in light of photographs taken of the area before the trees were felled, the mature cherry trees within the Talgarth Conservation Area made a significant and positive contribution to the town’s character and appearance.  Although he noted that there was no objection to the principle of the replanting he was not convinced by the argument that it would be appropriate to plant the replacement trees as part of a development scheme for the whole site.  He concluded that the replacement trees are required in the interests of amenity - and in view of the fact that planting 7 cherry trees was not particularly onerous - there was a remaining ‘window of opportunity’ to carry out the requirements of the Tree Replacement Notice.

Clare Jones, Enforcement Officer for Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said:  “This is a tremendous result that has not only had a major impact on the amenity and character of Talgarth but in the future may have widespread implications for other local communities and Conservation Areas.   The vigilance of local communities plays a significant part in the success of cases like this and I would take this opportunity to thank those that have been involved in seeing it through to fruition.  

“This is a real step forward for the Enforcement Team and it should make developers and landowners think very carefully before undertaking unauthorised clearance or development works.  Brecon Beacons National Park Authority takes breaches of planning control very seriously and is committed to ensuring that the appropriate action is followed where it is expedient to do so.”

Commenting on the appeal decision, Cllr William Powell, local Councillor and Member for Brecon Beacons National Park Authority said:  “We are delighted that the Planning Inspector has dismissed the appeal against the Tree Replacement Notice.  It’s not just a win for the National Park Authority; it’s a win for the Talgarth local community and the Conservation Area that embodies the character of the town.  I would like to make a special thank you to everyone who has been involved in pursuing this successful outcome – especially our National Park Enforcement Officers and Legal Team and the local people of Talgarth – for their patience, determination and hard work in getting to where we are today. 

“Many people in Talgarth loved these trees and are sorry to see them gone.  This action shows that the National Park Authority is committed to tackling people who ignore the need for planning consent and make unauthorised development work. We hope to see these beautiful cherry trees replanted as quickly as possible.”

Local resident, Stephen Groves, who reported the incident back in 2008 said:  “I’m pleased that the Inspector’s decision has been upheld and would like to thank Brecon Beacons National Park Authority for pursuing the matter to a successful conclusion.  It demonstrates the great weight the National Park places on small communities of great character – particularly those who have the additional responsibilities of being in a Conservation Area.    It has been a long road but this case has been a bit of a landmark for us all.  We hope it makes developers think twice about the works they undertake without the appropriate permission.  This is justice for the people of Talgarth who got great pleasure not just from the appearance of these cherry trees but the fruits and blossom they provided for decades.  Hopefully, this parcel of land will be reinstated to its former glory for the benefit of the residents of Talgarth.”