Westminster Council is considering a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) to protect a London plane tree in St John's Wood. The council will decide whether to confirm the TPO, with or without modification.
The Planning Sub-Committee (1) of Westminster Council met on Tuesday 5th August 2025 to discuss Tree Preservation Order No. 717, which provisionally protects a London plane tree (labelled T1) at 51 Hamilton Terrace in the St John's Wood Conservation Area.
The TPO was made in response to a notification of intent to remove the tree, citing that it was touching an outbuilding. The council's Arboricultural Officer responded to an objection from the property owner, stating that while the tree's trunk is close to the building, no evidence had been provided to show that the building is damaged, cannot be repaired, or that the roof cannot be modified to accommodate the tree.
The sub-committee was asked to decide whether to confirm the TPO, with or without modification, or not to confirm it.
The Public reports pack includes a report on the Tree Preservation Order No. 717, which states that the TPO was made following the receipt by the City Council of six weeks' notice of intention to remove one London plane from the rear garden of 51 Hamilton Terrace London NW8 9RG. The report notes that the tree is about 18m tall, with a broad and dominant crown, and is a mature specimen in good condition with a long-life expectancy.
The council's Arboricultural Officer responded to an objection by David Morley Architects, acting on behalf of the owner of the Property. While the applicant submitted photographs showing the tree's trunk close to the building, they did not provide evidence of damage, irreparable conditions, or the inability to modify the roof. The officer stated that the making of the TPO comprises the decision in respect to the section 211 notice (ref: 25/01000/TCA). The officer also noted that the current building was designed to accommodate the tree, with planning drawings (for application ref: 02/01776/FULL) showing a roof cut back to allow for sloping tree
.
David Morley Architects responded, stating that due to the delays caused by the City of Westminster deciding to embark on the procedures outlined in the officer's letter, their client will hold them responsible for any damage or personal injury caused in the meantime.
The Tree Preservation Order No 717 - 51 Hamilton Terrace V2 document outlines the options for the Sub-Committee's decision:
(a) NOT TO CONFIRM Tree Preservation Order No. 717 (2025); OR
(b) TO CONFIRM Tree Preservation Order No. 717 (2025) with or without modification with permanent effect.