A resident is fighting back against plans to build a new home in Hastings over concerns about trees being chopped down.
The proposal, submitted by Mr and Mrs Radia, would see a bungalow built on a 2,500 square-metre plot in a garden in 3 Ridgewood Gardens.
But part of the plot contains woodland covered by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) – described in the application as “mixed broadleaf and coniferous woodland of 0.41 hectares”.
3 Ridgewood Gardens (Image: Google Maps)
Daniel Baines, who describes himself as a “nearby resident”, has opposed the plans, arguing that removing these trees could harm the character and environment of the area.
He said these are not just “ordinary garden trees” but have been recognised by the local planning authority as significant contributors to public amenity.
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He also pointed out the legal duty of landowners to replace trees when they have been unlawfully removed, adding: “Where a protected tree is removed in breach of a Tree Preservation Order, Section 206 of the same Act requires the landowner to plant a replacement tree of an appropriate size and species.”
The plans, submitted Hastings Borough Council, said they should be approved due to the national demand on housing.
But Mr Baines said: “While the delivery of housing is clearly important, the National Planning Policy Framework also emphasises the need to protect and enhance the natural environment.”
Several nesting birds live in the woodland, according to the plans, which will be affected by the construction, losing places to forage and seek refuge.
The proposal hints at a “negative” impact on these nesting birds.
An assessment has found that the proposals fall short of achieving a 10% net gain in biodiversity.
A previous application from Mr and Mrs Radia was refused in June 2025 on 10 grounds, including a conflict with the character of the surrounding development, insufficient parking spaces, impact on existing residents and issues relating to the TPO.
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