§ Mr. LevittTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will bring forward proposals to amend the law to allow tree preservation orders to be designated for defined areas as well as for individual trees. [114245]
§ Mr. MullinThe law as it stands allows local authorities to use tree preservation orders to protect areas of trees as well as individual trees. Orders may also be used to protect groups of trees and woodlands.
§ Mr. LevittTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will review the immunity of Crown land from tree preservation orders. [114244]
§ Mr. MullinCrown immunity from the planning system as a whole, including the tree preservation order system, will be removed when a suitable legislative opportunity arises. Under the current law, it is possible for local authorities to make tree preservation orders on Crown land, subject to the agreement of the Crown. Such orders ensure that trees are protected if the land falls into private hands.