CONSTRUCTION companies and tree surgeons have been warned to respect tree preservation orders after a case was brought against the developers of the Chandos Lodge site, behind the former Grange Hotel, at Holybourne.

East Hampshire District Council insists it takes tree protection very seriously and will pursue anyone who damages protected trees, taking them to court if necessary.

A developer, a tree specialist and a groundworks company were found guilty of damaging trees on a building site in Holybourne. Stewart Garside, EHDC arboricultural officer, said: "We believes that protecting the local environment and landscape is very important.

"Anyone, even the largest developers or tree surgery companies, will be pursued and prosecuted if they do not comply with the law and live up to the high standards expected by the council."

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.