Taylor Wimpey Accused of "Environmental Vandalism" Over New Development

Strategic Insights -

Redcar and Cleveland local councillor Dr Tristan Learoyd has accused Taylor Wimpey of "environmental vandalism" in the wake of a contentious new development. The housebuilder won an appeal last November to extend the Silverdale Gardens development, which involved clearing a significant portion of the site. Local residents and councillors have expressed concerns over the removal of over a mile of hedgerow and trees, leaving endangered native British animals homeless.

Key Takeaways:

  • Taylor Wimpey won an appeal in November last year to extend the Silverdale Gardens development, which involved clearing over 310 meters of hedgerow.
  • Local councillor Dr Tristan Learoyd accused the company of "environmental vandalism" due to the removal of a significant portion of the site, leaving endangered native British animals homeless.
  • Hedgerows are vital ecological corridors, providing shelter, food, and nesting sites for a wide range of species, according to local councillor Jack Symon.
  • The clearance occurred near a main road, with disturbed animals being at greater risk of being killed by traffic.
  • Taylor Wimpey stated that it removed approximately 310m of hedgerow in line with its planning permission, citing an inspection by an ecologist.
  • The company claimed to have worked collaboratively with Redcar and Cleveland Council throughout the development process to ensure all planning requirements were met.
  • Taylor Wimpey provided over £500,000 in section 106 contributions towards education, local healthcare, and public rights of way improvements in the local area.

Statistics:

  • 310 meters of hedgerow removed according to Taylor Wimpey.
  • Over a mile of hedgerow and trees removed, according to local councillor Dr Tristan Learoyd.
  • £500,000 or more in section 106 contributions made by Taylor Wimpey towards education, local healthcare, and public rights of way improvements.
  • 114 new homes planned in the extension of the Silverdale Gardens development.

Sources:

  • Taylor Wimpey
  • Dr Tristan Learoyd, local councillor
  • Jack Symon, local councillor
  • Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS)
  • Redcar and Cleveland Council
  • UGC (UGC Cllr Learoyd pictured at the site)