Large Fine Handed out for Felling Trees in Osterley Garden
Permission hadn't been sought for removal in Conservation Area
The garden after the trees were chopped down. Picture: Hounslow Counci
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June 27, 2025
A property developer has been given a large fine after being found guilty of chopping down protected trees in a garden in Osterley.
71-year-old Kulwant (Kelly) Singh Garcha instructed workmen in 2024 to clear the garden in Wood Lane and fell mature trees without applying for consent from the Council, as is required for any tree works in a conservation area. All trees in such areas are automatically protected.
In an apparent attempt to conceal the offence, their root system was methodically removed, to leave no traces of the trees.
The felling coincided with a planning application submitted for the development of five flats at the property. The application included car parking proposals believed to have motivated the illegal clearance of trees.
Despite pleading not guilty, Mr Garcha was found guilty at Willesden Magistrates Court and fined £6,000 and ordered to pay additional council costs and a victim surcharge bringing the total to £13,400.
Cllr Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Assets, Regeneration and Development, said, “I would like to thank Cllr Tony Louki for bringing this case to our attention, as soon as alerted by neighbours on Wood Lane. Our residents – including local ward councillors – play a vital role in safeguarding their neighbourhoods, and their vigilance is often the first step in holding those who break the rules to account.
“This was a clear and unacceptable breach of planning control in one of our valued Conservation Areas. Trees are not just part of the character of places like Osterley – they are vital for biodiversity, air quality, and local wellbeing.
“The Council has a firm policy on protecting our natural environment, and we take legal action against those who try to flout the rules. This prosecution sends a strong message: illegal tree felling will not be tolerated. Developers and landowners must respect the law – and the communities they operate in.”
The Council monitors unauthorised activity and encourages residents to report any suspected illegal tree works to Planning enforcement | London Borough of Hounslow.
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