I’m disappointed by the decision that Fareham Borough Council was forced to make to remove Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) from seven trees between Heath Lawns and Southmead Road. Whilst I appreciate Local Councils are in a very difficult position, often caught between safeguarding our natural environment and the threat of excessive financial compensation claims, this decision reflects a broader challenge that demands urgent action.
This issue highlights a troubling reality. Insurers are exploiting these legal and financial pressures, putting our cherished ecosystem at risk. Trees are not just part of our landscape—they are vital to the health of local people, provide habitats for wildlife, and improve air quality.
I care deeply about protecting our trees in Fareham and Waterlooville. The Conservative Party logo is a tree—one that I imagine would have TPO status if it were real! I recently met with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to highlight this issue and will continue to urge them to change their guidance. The ABI is working with DEFRA and Forestry England on a new protocol that should improve the current situation, to be introduced next year. I have also brought this issue to the attention of the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, but I am yet to see positive action from the Labour Government.
Going forward, I will continue to work on behalf of you, my constituents, on this matter and will continue to seek to improve the current situation where too many cherished trees are being needlessly felled.
More information about this case can be found here: Fareham campaigners lose battle to save protected trees - BBC News
