HC Deb 21 May 1999 vol 331 cc473-4W
Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many appeals against refusal by local councils of consent to fell trees under the protection of tree preservation orders have been made since May 1997. [84911]

Mr. Meale

My Department has received 1,174 appeals between 1 May 1997 and 31 March 1999 against local councils' refusals of consent to carry out felling or other works on trees under the protection of tree preservation orders or against their failure to determine such applications.

Dr. Tonge

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions how many decisions by inspectors to allow consent to fell trees under tree preservation orders he has overturned since May 1997. [84912]

Mr. Meale

None. The Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions decides himself appeals against local councils' refusal of consent to fell protected trees. Inspectors are involved (a) when the appellant requests a Hearing or Public Inquiry or (b) when the appeal raises technical or arboricultural issues. However, in all cases, the Secretary of State makes the final decision, having regard to the Inspector's advice.