Wilderness Lake trees can be felled due to concerns over lake health
Bridgend Council’s Planning Committee unanimously approved selective felling and coppicing of trees along the western edge of Wilderness Lake (pictured) in Porthcawl (pdf).
Seven free-standing trees and three groups of trees have been selected due to their poor condition. There are also concerns from a local angling group that decaying tree material has impacted oxygen levels in the lake, threatening fish stock and wildlife.
While local ward member and Cabinet member, Cllr. Neelo Farr (Lab, Porthcawl East Central) had no objection following discussions with officers, Porthcawl Town Council objected to the removal of natural habitat.
There were also several objections from residents. These objections include the impact of previous illegal tree felling at the site, concerns over nesting birds and a belief that protecting the woodland should take priority over the health of the lake.
Court Colman traveller site approved
The committee also discussed an application for a traveller site at Old Coachman’s Lane near Court Colman (pdf).
The proposal is for three static caravans, a day room, a utility room and improved landscaping. The land has been designated as an approved traveller site in the draft Local Development Plan.
While there were no objections from statutory consultees, some local residents did object.
Their grounds included road safety concerns (due to the isolated nature of the site along a narrow lane), an argument that it’s a greenfield site and development would be out of kilter with a rural area, as well as encroachment on a public footpath between the site and the M4.
A planning officer told councillors there are exceptions to countryside development restrictions – one of which includes traveller sites.
A recorded vote was taken and the application was approved, with all but one member (who abstained) voting in favour.
Approval is subject to conditions. These include restricting the number of caravans on site to 4 at any one time, restoring the land to its original condition once use at the site ends and a ban on any commercial activities taking place at the site.
