Firm handed 'record' illegal tree felling fine

A landowner has been handed a record fine after illegally felling trees in Leicestershire, the Forestry Commission has said.

Motor Fuel Ltd, based at the corner of Ashby Road and Snells Nook Lane in Loughborough, was ordered to pay £268,751, including costs, after pleading guilty to failing to comply with an enforcement notice that was served at Leicester Magistrates' Court.

The Forestry Commission, which carried out the investigation, said it was the highest ever fine imposed on a case of illegal tree felling by a court in England.

The landowner was also ordered to replant and maintain 176 trees on the site for 10 years.

Details of the sentencing, which took place on 28 January, were released by the Forestry Commission on Thursday.

The Forestry Commission said the firm had illegally felled mixed broadleaf woodland beside a petrol station in 2019.

The trees were felled "as a pre-emptive action" for a future development proposal to extend the premises at the site.

Richard Pearce, Forestry Commission area director for the East and East Midlands, said: "Felling trees without a licence or failing to comply with an enforcement notice is unacceptable.

"This case demonstrates how seriously the Forestry Commission and the courts take the protection of trees, woodlands and forests, and the harm caused by illegal felling to the climate and nature."

A total sum due of £268,751 was ordered to be paid within 28 days of the sentencing hearing.

The figure included a fine of £266,666, prosecution costs of £85 and a surcharge of £2,000.

Listen to BBC Radio Leicester on Sounds and follow BBC Leicester on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.