In case anyone locally has not realised it, there is a digest of current planning applications and decisions on the South Somerset D.C website http://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-search/search-results.aspx?keyword=horsington&parish=&ward=&area=&decisions=&startdate=&enddate=.
The blog notes the application by Mr Phillip Colebatch for removal of a 90m length of hedgerow between two fields to increase area for arable husbandry (GR: 370182/125458). Should we encourage the ploughing up of old pasture and removal of habitat for many birds and mammals? It’s a prickly debate: on the one hand the world is increasingly short of staple foods, on the other is the destruction of the environment leading to reduction, and in some cases extinction, of species. In this case it seems the short term gain is heavily outweighed by the long term benefit to the environment of leaving things as they are. (what do you think Ed?)
See earlier post -Ed
This Application has been refused -Ed
We wonder what size of event will be able to be hosted at the Grange with the approval for the orangery, conservatory and verandah? Presumably this will now negate the need for a marquee for wedding receptions? Anyway as long as it is self-contained and does not cause undue disturbance there can be no complaint: but loud music and fireworks will not go down at all well on a regular basis. Consideration is needed on all sides.
Factual stuff. Under the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 it is against the law to remove or destroy certain hedgerows without permission from the local planning authority.
Local planning authority permission is required before removing hedges that are at least 20 metres (66 feet) in length, more than 30 years old and contain certain species of plant. The authority will assess the importance of the hedgerow using criteria set out in the regulations.
Mr Colebatch has correctly applied to SSDC for hedgerow removal. Permission can be refused if the planning authority deems the hedge to be “important” by criteria set out in the Act. Full details are here – Hedgerows Regulations 1997 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/1997/1160/contents/made
Opinion stuff. Destroying habitat for invertebrates, birds and mammals can only have a negative environmental impact.