Overview
- Homeowners on the edge of Poundbury say newly planted bird cherry trees are obscuring the countryside outlooks they paid premiums for and reducing light to their properties.
- Residents report that planning permission was sought retrospectively on the day the trees were planted during the 2024/2025 season, calling the approach disrespectful.
- The Duchy of Cornwall says it worked with Dorset Council Highways, submitted a minor amendment after approval, and selected bird cherry for resilience and compliance.
- One homeowner contends a tree sited about 4.2 metres from his house could invalidate insurance, citing a mismatch with the original planting plan.
- Others warn the changes could affect whether Peninsula Way is adopted by the highways authority, potentially shifting maintenance costs onto residents.