Abbotsleigh, Sharpstone Lane, Freshford, Bath, Bath

Abbotsleigh is an unlisted mid-19th century detached house, situated within the Freshford Village Conservation Area, Green Belt, and Cotswolds AONB. It retains a generous private garden setting which positively contributes to the green, well-planted character of the streetscape along the Tyning and Rosemary Lane, and closely abuts an area of dense woodland to the south-east. Within the wider context of the conservation area, the southern aspect of the garden reads as part of the wider green strip that runs between the Tyning and the River Frome, both enclosing the village and adding to its secluded, rural character.

The application proposes to fell approximately 12x trees, for a mix of reasons including infection with dieback, fire damage, as well as the removal of a conifer which has grown too big for the site. Given the site’s general contribution to the visual amenities of the local area, we recommend that where appropriate, significant felling works should be accompanied by a scheme for replanting in suitable native species to ensure that tree cover in this area is sustained and enhanced in the long-term. This is noted in particular to the high concentration of trees identified for works to the south-east, where this visually merges into neighbouring woodland.