ILLEGAL tree felling in woodland at Lynchmere has left the parish council and the taxpayers to pick up the cost of clearing up.

Around 10 mature trees were felled in the woods close to Copse Road recreation ground over one weekend.

The damage was reported to Chichester District Council, but Lynchmere parish has been told enforcement action cannot to be taken because the trees are just outside the conservation area.

With no proof of who is responsible for the damage, the parish council has been left with a bill for contractors to clear the footpaths and make the area safe.

Lynchmere Parish Council clerk Kate Bain said: “A large number of trees including established oaks, belonging to the parish council, have been illegally felled and left in a dangerous state by a resident, leaving a popular area in need of remedial work. No residents have come forward to accept responsibility. The parish council will face a bill of several thousand pounds, and this cost will ultimately fall on the local taxpayer.”

She added: “The council is particularly upset as normally residents do approach the council if they want to request treework. The council will usually give consent provided planning procedure is followed and qualified tree surgeons are used.

“If the trees were of concern to any of the nearby properties, it is likely sensible, agreed, permitted works could have been discussed. The taxpayer will have to pay for residents taking the law into their own hands, and leaving a dangerous situation for the public.”