Fury as four village trees in Hapton cut down amid confusion over permission
Residents in Hapton have reacted with anger and disbelief after four trees were cut down without clear confirmation that the proper permissions were in place.
The trees, located on land owned by Burnley Council but leased to the owner of the former Bridge Inn, have been a familiar and much-loved feature of the community for years. More recently, they have also played a central role in festive celebrations, with Christmas lights installed to help brighten the village during the holiday season.
Concerns were raised early on Monday morning when a number of vans arrived and work began to fell the trees. Alarmed residents quickly began contacting local representatives to question what was happening.
One local councillor said their phone had been “non-stop” with calls from concerned residents.
The leaseholder of the land has stated that permission had been granted by Burnley Council to remove the trees. However, this claim is currently unverified, with confusion heightened by the fact that council offices are closed for the Easter holiday period.
Despite the closure, senior council officers have reportedly been contacted and have raised potential health and safety concerns, as well as the need for proper permits – particularly for a conifer tree situated close to the road.
Local councillors Jamie McGowan, Alan Hosker and Hapton Parish Council chairman Tim Birbeck attended the scene to assess the situation.
A full investigation is expected to take place once council offices reopen on Tuesday. Officials have indicated that if the trees have been removed without the necessary permissions, enforcement action could follow, including the possibility of fines and requirements for replacement planting.
In the meantime, residents have been thanked for quickly raising the alarm, as the community continues to seek clarity over how the situation unfolded.