BG/TC: IMPROVING TREE CANOPY COVER AND THE TREE POPULATION

8.1 Martin Grant Homes supports the provision of trees within developments and successfully ensure appropriate planting sits within their development to the benefit of future residents. The concept of policy BG/TC is therefore supported.

8.2 However, the policy and supporting text within the First Proposals document does not provide any guidance as to when the policy would be needed or any quantum of planting that a development would need to provide. As such, it is unclear whether this would be relevant to residential development, and if so, what would the potential land-take be as a result. The latter point raises concerns regarding densities and associated impacts upon viability that could result.

8.3 It is not therefore considered the policy at present gives clear guidance as to what is expected from developers, which raises concern. Greater clarity is needed before appropriate and informed comments can be made.