Flat 5, Regatta House, 32 Twickenham Road, Teddington, TW11 8AZ

New rear extension; re-instated porch, air-conditioning units; landscaping and other alterations to the property.

Proposal: The Hornbeam in question is located directly behind the garden wall of 71 Waldegrave Park and adjacent to the garden of 55 Waldegrave Park. It was given a TPO well before Yr 2000 (exact year TBC). As yet, we are unaware of the original sponsor of the TPO, believing it to be a previous party no longer resident in the vicinity. The tree has been left untouched due to its location on 'common ground' bordering the properties above and Hawksley Close to the rear. It is understood that the tree has not received any attention from LBRUT over the last 30 years and may well have received none since its TPO was originally applied. The Hornbeam is now above roof height (and substantially above gutter-height) of a terrace of 4 x 3-storey townhouses - consisting of 71-79 Waldegrave Park, TW1. The tree has grown rigorously, putting on a growth-spurt over the last 5 years where it now heavily fruits during the July-August period. This had led to substantial leaf- and fruit-fall during the summer months where the 'London Parakeets' strip the tree throughout July creating substantial leaf-drop and mess which needs regular removal by the residents of 71 and 55 etc.. The parakeets are also a noise nuisance throughout early July to mid-August from 06.00 hours to dusk when residents windows are open due to hotter conditions, where their wish to enjoy the amenity of outdoor living in the summer months is challenged. During autumn - due to the Hornbeam's height and girth - the tree's heavy leaf drop means gutters are now becoming increasingly filled with leaf litter. The tree's recent growth-spurt also means it is starting to dominate the small garden of 71 Waldegrave and surrounding area where other plants can struggle for light and nutrients. Therefore, both households of 71 and 55 Waldegrave Park are in agreement to establish a care programme for the tree where its health can be monitored for maximum amenity whilst also reducing the current inconvenience occasioned by its recent growth-spurt. We're aiming that this programme will result in a pruning cycle of 5+ years and establish a clear pathway of support the tree has lacked for over 30 years. We understand that heavier pruning is more likely to invigorate the tree to newer growth (which is no bad thing for its health). Nonetheless, our aim is to establish a programme where it can be substantially pruned back (and especially reduced in height), shaped in a manner which suits the overall character of the species, permitting healthier growth, reduce its seed growth, whilst allowing more light around its base where other extant ground plants can flourish. We recognise residents of Hawksley Close appreciate its visual amenity as a screen between 71 and the 2 properties directly behind. Therefore, we hope to now establish a sensible care programme to maximise amenity for residents as well as ensuring the future health of a well-liked part of our local landscape.

English yew (Taxus baccata) identified as T003 on the accompanying tree survey and classified as Category B. As recommended by our tree surgeon, we propose a crown reduction of approximately 1–2 metres across the entire tree including branches overhanging the neighbouring property to reduce its overall size while maintaining its natural shape. Our property is within a conservation area. We have been unable to establish whether the tree is also subject to a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). As the form does not offer an 'Unknown' option we have selected 'No' but would be grateful if the Council could confirm its TPO status and process the application accordingly.