Tree felling in Beaufort Park: MP demands review and apology

The Hill Group has cut down trees for the Beaufort Park development of 226 homes - but is also accused of cutting trees on neighbouring land, owned by Taylor Wimpey, without permission.

Residents said they were experiencing 'total devastation' of the forest while Taylor Wimpey said the works were carried out without their 'knowledge, approval or consent'.

Taylor Wimpey said it would have to cut more trees down on their land as they are 'now susceptible to falling in high winds due to increased exposure'.

But the Hill Group said it has been through an 'extensive planning process' with all works receiving appropriate approval.

The trees in the area before and after felling (Image: LDRS) Now the MP for Bracknell Peter Swallow and executive member for planning, transport and countryside Guy Gillbe are demanding action from the Hill Group.

In a letter sent to its CEO Andrew Hill, Mr Swallow and Cllr Gillbe wrote: "This tree felling has caused significant distress to residents who are committed stewards of our local nature and are understandably disturbed that an operation of this scale could occur by mistake."

The pair have asked the Hill Group to conduct an internal review to identify how the incident took place, how it will impact nesting birds and replant the lost trees.

"We are also calling on the Hill Group to issue a formal apology to residents for the distress caused by this action, which has done considerable harm to the natural environment of which Bracknell Forest is rightly proud," the letter continued.

Mr Swallow has written to the CEO of The Hill Group alongside Cllr Guy Gillbe (Image: House of Commons) The Beaufort Park site has been controversial since its conception, after being initially refused by Bracknell Forest Council in 2022.

It was then approved in March 2024 after a tied vote.

At the time, the developer said it was committed to replanting the trees lost to the site. But Councillor Tina Eberle said the plans would result in Bracknell being 'without a forest very soon'.

Earlier this month The Hill Group said: "The site has undergone an extensive planning process, resulting in the approval of the project.

"Throughout this time, The Hill Group has worked closely with local authority planners and independent arboriculturalists to ensure that tree removal is carefully managed throughout.

"Tree felling on our first phase is now complete and we expect further felling to commence later this year on our second phase.

"We are excited to move forward with the development of 226 much-needed high quality sustainable homes, of which 50% will be affordable, contributing positively to the local community."