Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Climate Change – in the Senedd at 2:06 pm on 21 September 2022.
Thank you. I know that there is concern right across the community in Llanbradach and Caerphilly about the destruction of the Bluebell woodlands, and it was distressing to see some of the pictures. I think, if there's any positive to come out of it, it is the fact that there has been such a strong community reaction, who understand the value that biodiversity has to their area. I think we've got a long way to go to make sure that developers also understand the value.
I think our policy framework is strong; it sets clearly out in 'Planning Policy Wales' that planning authorities should protect ancient woodlands, semi-natural woodlands, and individual veteran and ancient trees. NRW's standing advice to authorities also makes clear that planning permission should be refused if the development would result in a loss or deterioration of the ancient woodland, unless there are wholly exceptional reasons. I believe that, in this case, action was taken to clear the land before planning permission was applied for, and there is enforcement action being taken by the local authority. So, I think I should pay tribute to the leader and cabinet member of Caerphilly council and the community council for taking strong action when they became aware that this destruction had taken place. The community can request that tree preservation orders be made on trees that they consider to be of value, but I think this is an example of where it's important that we all come together to make sure that, if there are transgressions, they're dealt with severely and that we raise the level of appreciation for ancient woodlands so that action isn't taken in the first place.