Box Council Warns of Tree Felling Fines in the Village

Box Parish Council has warned villagers that they will be fined if they cut down protected trees. Within the village, situated on the outskirts of Corsham is a large Conservation Area, which has been given a protected status in order to ensure the natural features of the land are safeguarded. Any trees that are felled in the Conservation Area without permission could result in a heavy fine.

“Parishioners are reminded that trees in the Conservation Area, and some of the trees outside this area but with Tree Preservation Orders on them, require Planning Permission before they are felled,” issued the Box Parish Council, “You are advised to contact Wiltshire Council Planning Department prior to cutting any down.”  

The Box Parish Council have given a rough guide to the Conservation Area of the village, but stress that checking with the Wiltshire Council is the first course of action when wanting to cut down a tree in the area. 

The Box Parish Council also warn that lopping and pruning also needs consent, so before getting the saw out, check if your tree is protected. Breaches of the Tree Preservation Order, according to Box Parish Council, “can incur a fine of £20,000 in a Magistrates’ Court, and in the Crown Court it’s unlimited.”

The Willtshire Council Planning Department can be contacted by phone on 01249 706444 and do check the Box Parish Council site if you want more information.