Carl Bellis was fined for illegally chopping down a mature beech tree in his garden, which was valued at over 114,000. He claimed the tree posed safety hazards to his daughter and had caused damage to his property. However, Liverpool City Council argued his application to remove the tree did not provide enough evidence. The court found him guilty of wilful destruction of the tree, resulting in fines and court costs. This case emphasizes the importance of tree preservation laws and the need for sufficient evidence before altering protected trees.
A man has been fined for chopping down a tree in his garden worth more than 114,000 after claiming a falling branch narrowly missed his daughter. Carl Bellis, of Sandfield Close, appeared at Liverpool Magistrate's Court after being charged with wilful destruction of a tree. He was fined 1,100 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of 440. Costs of 1,067 were awarded to Liverpool City Council.
Mr Bellis said the mature beech tree had also lifted paving flags which created a trip hazard, and branches had damaged his car and guttering. The city council refused the request on the basis of insufficient evidence submitted to support the application.
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