John said - A blow for David Cameron's "Green" credentials?No, IMHO, just an indication of the lack of cohesion in the way policies are drawn up, implemented and the review of how they are being used, might I suggest? Oh, and that teensy weeny subject of enforcement, of course. If you don’t mean the policy, it ain’t going to be used!Do we really want to see no green trees and no greenery around the Borough within a few short years? I can just see me taking my Grandchildren to a PARK for a History lesson – ‘years ago we used to have trees in our gardens’.What do we really mean about the environment – and the wild life? There has recently been a few mentions about front gardens – and the concern that these are being given over to cars without any shrubbery – yet there is a much more pressing concern – which appears to be being totally ignored – and that is the BACK gardens. I have recently heard of a planning application for a huge side extension, which apparently does not show the decision makers that there are already two detached bungalows in the back garden. My point is the plans should reflect the true situation and clearly state what is expected of the householder and landowners in the Borough to maintain the environment (for everyone) both during work and afterwards. Clear intentions, should be clearly stipulated.A few years ago on one of many talks within – I was told there had been an Arial survey of hedgerows in order to take measures to protect them – another Chocolate tea pot again – but these photos would be useful if compared with a new set – to show clearly what is going on. There appears to be a complete run of these bungalows at the back of the huge extended houses on Northumberland Avenue.Isn’t a policy, a standard? If so, what is the point of a policy if it isn’t to be applied fairly and people know the standards expected by the Council and the Community, together? So, Paul – what is up for consideration tonight? – the idea of Trees is a good one – but the committee had a very convincing discussion about them within the last couple of years – so is it a follow up?Is it a sit alone discussion about trees or will it be a frank knitting together of the environmental policies which cover the topic and a review of how these are working? The destruction of this section of Hedgerow along The Great West Road – should surely be a sit up and take note, discussion? If somebody actually says the Hedgerow looked unsightly – then the environmentalists should be ready with a package of how to maintain and improve the hedgerow for future generations, at their fingertips.How is a policy on Trees going to ‘hit the ground’? Will it just make another hole in the pavement – be misused and run off in the wrong direction – or actually do what it is intended?Who would the trained people at the Council be to help with checking the ‘lay of the land’? and to give their expertise on what they would want included?
Sarah Felstead ● 6820d