Work proposed to six trees at Rock Bank West

ImpactAutomated estimate

Summary

The applicant proposes to fell two oak trees. Two more oaks would be cut back to earlier cutting points. A sycamore would be reduced by up to two metres, and one branch would be removed from another oak.

The site is in the historic part of Brixham. Five nearby properties are directly adjacent, while 18 property fronts have a clear view towards the site.

The work could change the trees and hedge around this large, pre-1900 house. The applicant states that leaning, decay, tight root space and vehicle access are the reasons for the work.

The council's wording below is the official record. This summary was made automatically from the council's notice.

What the council wrote

Oak T1 - Proposed work: Fell.Justification: The tree exhibits a pronounced lean with a restricted rooting environment, resulting in reduced structural stability. Removal is appropriate due to limited long-term retention potential. Natural regeneration is generally expected and seen as a suitable strategy for this species.Oak T2 - Proposed work: Re-coppice to previous points.Justification: Evidence of decay within the lower stem. Re-coppicing helps restore a stable coppice stool and keeps the tree contributing to the hedge structure. Natural regeneration is generally expected and seen as a suitable replacement strategy for this species.Oak T3 - Proposed work: Fell.Justification: Significant lean combined with constrained rooting space, limiting safe future development. Removal is appropriate given the low long-term viability. Natural regeneration is generally expected and seen as a suitable strategy for this species.Oak T4 - Re-coppice to previous points.Justification: Decay is present in the lower stem. Re-coppicing helps restore a stable coppice stool and keeps the tree contributing to the hedge structure. Natural regeneration is generally expected and seen as a suitable replacement strategy for this species.Sycamore T5 - Proposed work: Crown reduction by up to 2m, maintaining natural form.Justification: Works intended to manage crown spread and maintain appropriate clearance while retaining tree health and amenity value. The tree lost its stability and possibly some roots when the neighbouring wall collapsed last year.Oak T6 - Proposed work: Remove the lowest-order branch only.Justification: Minor branch removal required to facilitate access for larger vehicles. The branch is of small diameter with an acceptable 3:1 ratio, and removal will not adversely affect the tree's form or vitality.

What you can do

You can comment to Torbay Council using reference AT/2026/0088. Explain any concerns about the trees, wildlife, nearby properties or the historic area. The council cannot consider possible effects on property prices.