Helensburgh residents launch petition to save ancient tree

Locals hope to preserve a copper beech tree within the Hill House conservation area which they fear could be damaged if plans to restore and extend a nearby property are given the green light.

The online petition was launched on February 14 and had attracted more than 100 signatures within a day.

Suzanne Hamilton, who organised the petition, says she's worried that controversial plans to carry out work at Redholm on West Lennox Drive will put the tree's roots at risk.

The Advertiser previously reported on a public hearing in the town on the Redholm planning application - which was adjourned earlier this month without a decision being reached.

Twenty-nine objections to the application have been lodged with Argyll and Bute Council.

READ MORE: Concerns raised that Helensburgh house plans could threaten 175-year-old beech tree

In a statement published alongside the online petition, Suzanne said: “If you have ever used the post box outside 2a Upper Colquhoun Street, Helensburgh you will be familiar with the sight of the towering copper beech tree in the background which sits over the hedge.

“This 22-metre tree is estimated to be 175 years old and predates the house next to it.

“This ancient tree is part of the Helensburgh Hill House conservation area and should automatically have protected status.

“However, we need your help to ensure its continued survival as the tree roots extend into the property next door and developers plan to ‘frame the spectacular views to the south and west of the site…’ with a double storey extension.

“[This] could potentially damage the tree roots, and possibly endanger the life of the tree itself.

“Please help us by showing your support for the Tree Preservation Order we have lodged with Argyll and Bute Council and sign this petition.”

A computer-generated image of proposed works at Redholm in West Lennox Drive, Helensburgh (Image: Gfivethree/Argyll and Bute Council)

Applicant Gail Crawford's proposals to carry out conservation work at Redholm and to build a two-storey extension at the property were considered at a special public hearing of the council's planning, protective services and licensing committee on February 7.

During the meeting, Ms Crawford told the committee the proposed work at Redholm - which has been recommended for approval by local authority officials - was essential to prevent subsidence at the property.

She said: “I was excited about the renovation process, designing my home, where I intend to stay for many years to come.

“After taking possession in October 2022, I found a continued stream was flowing through the house.

“After many investigative works, it became apparent that the issue was a flood drain problem, which has been long-standing.

“During the summer of 2023 I carried out further investigative work, as I could not just sit back and watch the fabric of my home deteriorate further.

“There is already evidence of subsidence and I suspect most homeowners would take the same course of action. Over the past 11 months my home has deteriorated further.

“I hope the council follows the advice of planning officers, who have carried out a rigorous process.

“Please note that this planning application does not involve anything not already existing in the immediate area.”

The meeting was adjourned due to because the committee's chair had personal commitments and its vice-chair was unable to attend; a new date has yet to be set for the hearing's continuation.

An Argyll and Bute Council representative said: "The application is currently subject to the normal planning process for determination.

"We are looking to reconvene the continued planning hearing as soon as possible."

The full petition can be read at www.you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/help-save-magnificent-copper-beech-tree.