Bracknell Tree Boundary Debate Sparks Outrage

A debate has raged over a tree boundary for a development of nearly 300 homes at a woodland site on the outskirts of Bracknell.

A heated debate has erupted over a tree boundary for a new development of nearly 300 homes near Bracknell.

Beaufort Park, located between Bracknell and Crowthorne, will see 294 homes built, with 68 by Taylor Wimpey, named The Evergreens, and 226 by the Hill Group.

Some trees, which were to serve as a boundary, were cut down earlier this year for safety, causing outrage among Evergreens residents who felt it was a ‘deforestation.’

The Hill Group submitted a plan last December to plant 500 mature trees, alongside 200 shrubs and hedgerows.

At a recent Bracknell Forest Council meeting, Georgina Cusack, a resident, stated: “I’m not against the development, but protecting the boundary was part of the agreement. If they can’t do that, they need to build fewer homes. We can meet housing needs while preserving the tree line that defines Bracknell Forest.”

She urged the council to ensure a tree officer monitors the protection of existing trees.

Carl Stredder from the Hill Group assured that trees on the boundary will be marked and fenced to prevent further loss, and confirmed that they will retain 30 established native broadleaf trees.

Councillors expressed mixed feelings, with Cllr Tony Virgo commenting, “It’s a mess! I’m slightly nervous about this.” Meanwhile, Cllr Patrick Smith voiced his anger over the tree loss, calling it unbelievable.

Despite concerns, the committee unanimously approved the tree planting plan on October 9. You can check the application by searching reference 24/00198/COND on the council’s planning portal.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter