A petition has been launched to safeguard the future of more than 200 trees in Aberdeenshire.
It is understood an area in the region of 12 football pitches would be developed under the plans put forward by Cala Homes (North) in partnership with the Meldrum House Estate.
The housebuilder submitted new proposals for homes in the grounds of Meldrum House Hotel and golf club in Oldmeldrum last year.
It had previously put forward a larger scheme for 50 properties at the site in November, 2017.
The new plans comprise three separate planning applications, which together propose the replacement of the Hedgerhall, the redevelopment of kennels and cottage and the creation 36 further properties within the grounds, supporting the previously approved enabling development scheme.
Locals have, however, noticed “red dots” appearing on trees across the estate and say it was at that point “alarm bells started ringing”.
Local resident Michael Stephenson says 229 trees are planned to be felled by Cala Homes if they get permission for their development from Aberdeenshire Council, 85 of which are classified as “notable” as they were planted more than 200 years ago.
He is not opposed to the housing development, but has urged developers to go about the process in “the right way”.
“The developer proposes to build 39 luxury houses on this estate, which will involve the cutting down of 20.61 acres – or equivalent to nearly 12 football pitches – of woodland to make way for these houses,” Mr Stephenson said.
“At a time when global warming is threatening the future of our planet and there is an increasing awareness of loss of biodiversity and wildlife, it would seem totally irresponsible to be building houses on this beautiful woodland.”
Local residents have concerns on how the felling of the trees will affect local wildlife, such as red squirrels, pipistrel bats, buzzards and owls.
A spokesman for CALA Homes (North) said they are working with the council on the plans.
He said: “In comparison with the originally approved plans, ours see more of the natural environment retained, and trees replanted to offset the necessary removal of any woodland. This is important in not only retaining the character of the surrounding environment, but also building upon the significant improvements Meldrum House Estates has already made in the last 25 years with its programme of extensive tree planting and habitat management.
“As a responsible developer, we take our potential impact on wildlife very seriously.
“As part of the planning process, we have carried out and submitted the results of extensive surveys to the council and will carry out a continued programme of monitoring during development, should our plans be approved.”
To sign the petition relating to the 229 trees at Meldrum House Estate, email your name and address to savemeldrumtrees@icloud.com.
