AN application to fell eight protected trees at the old pistol firing range on Lemon Grove has been received by East Hampshire District Council. The six pine trees and two birch trees, are subject to a tree protection order, which make it an offence to cut down, lop, top, uproot or wilfully damage or destroy the trees. And removal or alterations of any kind can only be done with permission from the planning department. In a letter to the planning services, the applicant wrote: "The reason for this application is that my client has an option to develop the land for housing and wishes to know the council's view on the trees, prior to instructing architects to draw up plans." The applicant goes on to say that if the trees were not removed, the surface area of the development "would be significantly reduced". Councillors at the Whitehill Town Council meeting held on July 9 voted to object to the plan, on the basis that the felling of the trees is not necessary at this moment and the effect it could have on wildlife. The area has previously been home to a number of badger setts, and it is now thought that there are bats inhabiting the area. The local plan second review states: "In order to secure the provision of a children's play site in the Lemon Grove area, the council considers that a very limited amount of development may be appropriate on part of this site. Any development will have to give priority to the nature conservation value of the site." As The Herald went to press, four letters of objection had been received.