THE project lead from the Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company said preservation was a “crucial part” of development.

In the wake of tree felling along the A325 (Petersfield Road) in Whitehill, the Regeneration Company’s James Child said, when it comes to developing large portions of land, no decision was taken rashly.

“Unfortunately, there are often times when instances of tree removal are inevitable where development is sanctioned on areas off brownfield land,” he said.

“Ecology is clearly of significant concern to developers like ourselves, and preservation is a crucial part of development projects but it is important to consider that any decision made on a project, like the works ongoing to the A325, is done with extensive consultation of planning authorities and the Environmental Agency.

“The most important consideration is that local communities are addressed when decisions are made and that the intended benefit of ecological alterations, such as tree removals and planting, is expressed.

“In locations such as the Hogmoor Inclosure, we deliberately cleared areas of pine trees to create a large heathland. In this instance, providing significant areas of heathland will benefit a larger range of plants and wildlife than the previous pine plantation that existed before, increasing the biodiversity for the area.”

Last week the Forestry Commission confirmed that tree felling along the A325 in Whitehill - described as the “gateway” to the town - had been carried out by the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

The scheme aims to connect two important pieces of land for the rare natterjack toad, which requires open space to thrive.

Whitehill and Bordon county, district and town councillor Adam Carew said he had “received a large number of complaints” about the felling, with some residents unsure why the work was necessary.

The natterjack toad is a European Protected Species and lives on local heathland.