Controversy has erupted in Blairgowrie over the recent removal of a significant number of trees near the Kinloch Brae housing development. Local residents have expressed outrage, alleging that the scale of tree felling far surpasses what was permitted in the original planning application. Their concerns extend beyond the sheer number of trees removed, highlighting the potential impact on local wildlife, particularly during the bird nesting season.
The felling operation, which involved the use of chainsaws and other heavy equipment, reportedly took place overnight, surprising residents and sparking immediate protests. Visual evidence shared on social media shows large piles of cut branches, leading to accusations of environmental disregard. One resident described the situation as a ‘massacre’, indicating the strong feelings within the community. Council Investigation Underway
Perth and Kinross Council, the authority responsible for approving the Kinloch Brae development, has confirmed that it’s investigating the matter. They have stated publicly that any unauthorized tree felling will result in swift action. While the council acknowledged the need for drainage improvements as part of the housing development, officials are currently assessing whether the tree removal complied with the approved plans. A site inspection is planned to verify the exact number of trees removed and compare it to the figures detailed in the original planning consent. Community Outcry and Future Concerns
The incident has ignited a passionate debate within the Blairgowrie community. Concerns about the potential for further environmental damage are running high, especially given the site’s proximity to other natural areas. The community’s love for its local environment is evident, as evidenced by many letters of objection to the initial construction plans. Many fear that the loss of these trees will have a profound and lasting impact on the area’s ecology and visual appeal.
Local representatives have pledged to address the concerns of the residents. Councillor Bob Brawn, representing the Blairgowrie and Glens ward, has confirmed that he and his fellow councillors are aware of the strong feelings and that they are working to obtain answers from Persimmon Homes and the council’s planning department. This includes clarifying the exact number of trees removed compared to the conditions outlined in the approved planning applications. He also noted that the legality of felling trees during bird nesting season will be a key part of the investigation, particularly as this period is legally protected. Developer’s Response and Ongoing Dialogue
In a statement, Persimmon Homes emphasized that the tree felling was carried out by a licensed and experienced arborist and was deemed necessary to construct the essential drainage systems. They further stated their adherence to the approved plans and pledged to continue to engage with local residents and officials to alleviate concerns and provide clarity. However, this response has not been universally accepted, with many residents demanding more transparency and a commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of the project. The statement emphasizes that the tree removal was not random, but a controlled procedure executed within the parameters set by the official planning permits. This includes the consideration of wildlife and ecological impact as outlined in the conditions for the approval of the planning application for the housing development at Kinloch Brae.
The situation underscores the ongoing tension between development and environmental preservation in Perth and Kinross. The Kinloch Brae project, even before this latest controversy, had faced considerable opposition. This latest development raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current planning regulations and the importance of community engagement in large-scale construction projects. The project’s approval itself had already been met with significant criticism, with objections raised on various platforms, highlighting the strong community bond with its natural surroundings. This has given this incident an even greater impact within the local community. Looking Ahead
The outcome of the council’s investigation will be crucial. Depending on the findings, further action, including potential penalties for the developer, or more comprehensive environmental mitigation plans, may follow. The event has spurred renewed calls for stricter environmental safeguards in future planning decisions and a stronger voice for local communities in shaping their surroundings. The investigation will take into consideration all aspects, including the timing of the tree removal, adherence to the original planning application, and any potential violations of environmental regulations. This will help to ensure that any future projects are planned and executed with greater consideration for environmental protection and local community involvement. Public transparency will be key in rebuilding community confidence.
The felling operation, which involved the use of chainsaws and other heavy equipment, reportedly took place overnight, surprising residents and sparking immediate protests. Visual evidence shared on social media shows large piles of cut branches, leading to accusations of environmental disregard. One resident described the situation as a ‘massacre’, indicating the strong feelings within the community. Council Investigation Underway
Perth and Kinross Council, the authority responsible for approving the Kinloch Brae development, has confirmed that it’s investigating the matter. They have stated publicly that any unauthorized tree felling will result in swift action. While the council acknowledged the need for drainage improvements as part of the housing development, officials are currently assessing whether the tree removal complied with the approved plans. A site inspection is planned to verify the exact number of trees removed and compare it to the figures detailed in the original planning consent. Community Outcry and Future Concerns
The incident has ignited a passionate debate within the Blairgowrie community. Concerns about the potential for further environmental damage are running high, especially given the site’s proximity to other natural areas. The community’s love for its local environment is evident, as evidenced by many letters of objection to the initial construction plans. Many fear that the loss of these trees will have a profound and lasting impact on the area’s ecology and visual appeal.
Local representatives have pledged to address the concerns of the residents. Councillor Bob Brawn, representing the Blairgowrie and Glens ward, has confirmed that he and his fellow councillors are aware of the strong feelings and that they are working to obtain answers from Persimmon Homes and the council’s planning department. This includes clarifying the exact number of trees removed compared to the conditions outlined in the approved planning applications. He also noted that the legality of felling trees during bird nesting season will be a key part of the investigation, particularly as this period is legally protected. Developer’s Response and Ongoing Dialogue
In a statement, Persimmon Homes emphasized that the tree felling was carried out by a licensed and experienced arborist and was deemed necessary to construct the essential drainage systems. They further stated their adherence to the approved plans and pledged to continue to engage with local residents and officials to alleviate concerns and provide clarity. However, this response has not been universally accepted, with many residents demanding more transparency and a commitment to mitigating the environmental impact of the project. The statement emphasizes that the tree removal was not random, but a controlled procedure executed within the parameters set by the official planning permits. This includes the consideration of wildlife and ecological impact as outlined in the conditions for the approval of the planning application for the housing development at Kinloch Brae.
The situation underscores the ongoing tension between development and environmental preservation in Perth and Kinross. The Kinloch Brae project, even before this latest controversy, had faced considerable opposition. This latest development raises serious questions about the effectiveness of current planning regulations and the importance of community engagement in large-scale construction projects. The project’s approval itself had already been met with significant criticism, with objections raised on various platforms, highlighting the strong community bond with its natural surroundings. This has given this incident an even greater impact within the local community. Looking Ahead
The outcome of the council’s investigation will be crucial. Depending on the findings, further action, including potential penalties for the developer, or more comprehensive environmental mitigation plans, may follow. The event has spurred renewed calls for stricter environmental safeguards in future planning decisions and a stronger voice for local communities in shaping their surroundings. The investigation will take into consideration all aspects, including the timing of the tree removal, adherence to the original planning application, and any potential violations of environmental regulations. This will help to ensure that any future projects are planned and executed with greater consideration for environmental protection and local community involvement. Public transparency will be key in rebuilding community confidence.