Bid to preserve historic Milton Keynes oak tree that is a ‘risk to life’

The tree, in a back garden in Milton Keynes, is understood to be more than 100 years old and was around long before the houses around it were built in the early 1990s.

After Milton Keynes Council officers got to hear that there was a risk that the tree would be chopped down, they slapped a temporary tree preservation order (TPO) on it.

But one of the residents in Wishart Green has objected to the TPO being granted. He says his “main concern is the risk to the health and safety of all residents and properties” of the looming tree.

Objector Peter Snowdon, whose property backs on to the neighbour’s tree, said: “When we moved into our property six years ago the owner suggested he had left this tree in his garden as he liked the tree but if it ever became a problem it would be removed.

“This tree has now grown to a size that considerably encroaches into all respective gardens and now represents a danger to life and limb as large branches in high winds break and roots are already representing a problem to my patio and conservatory foundations.

“The tree substantially blocks out light when in full leaf and the situation if not addressed will only become worse.”

He added that removal of it “can only have a positive outcome”.

Now councillors will be called on to decide at a meeting that is due to be held virtually this week.

Council officers have recommended approving the TPO.

Planning officer Tamlin Barton, in a report to Thursday’s development control committee, said: “The age of the oak is unknown but it is likely to be in excess of 100 years and it is shown on 1945 mapping on a historic hedge line which was incorporated into Old Park Farm in the 1990s.”

“It also has some historical significance as a remnant of the original rural landscape,” they add.

The officers also say mature oak trees are a benefit to local biodiversity and add to the local area.

The council’s tree specialist considers that the tree is healthy and adds to the amenity of the areas and is “therefore worthy of protection.”

“While there is always a risk that overhanging or dead branches on any tree could be brought down by strong winds,” says the officer’s report, “this could be easily mitigated for through a crown reduction and removal of deadwood as is usual arboricultural practice.”

Although they say the tree overshadows some of the neighbouring gardens, and contrary to the objection, it has not grown substantially since the houses were constructed as oaks are very slow growing.

“Any risk of future damage could be mitigated for through professional intervention,” they add.

The meeting will be held from 7pm on Thursday (April 23) online here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybcWP1e3Ws7Cvu1G8SjZJA