2 Southdown House Mews 51 Old London Road Brighton BN1 8YA
T1 (see documents 1a and 1b) is a mature trachycarpus fortunei which is in average to poor condition (significant browning of leaves, see document 2: photomontage of position and condition of tree). It is a single stem non-native species originating from China which, according to the Royal Horticultural Society, is not a 'true' tree but in fact a large woody herb more closely related to grasses and bamboos. It is located approximately 1900mm from the rear wall of 2 Southdown House Mews, and approximately 3000mm from one of two very large sycamores protected by TPO 1971/13. It is between 4-5m tall. I am seeking permission to fell this palm due to:- shading at the rear of a house, where natural light is already impinged by the sycamore - significant shading of the south facing garden wall and flowerbed, which would otherwise receive sunlight for most of the day, and which is impacting on the growth and health of plants there including two small native fruit trees (apple and pear). As the property / garden inhabit what used to be the market garden for listed property 51 Old London Road, I would like to preserve some of the character and maintain fruit trees planted here.The condition of the tree is shown in document 2 - whilst not an immediate risk, there is significant browning on the majority of leaves. Given proximity to house and the growth pattern / shape of trunk (narrower at base, thickening continuously as it rises) its health may become an issue.The palm does not appear to have been managed / maintained in the past. It is not visible from any road or neighbouring property and hence has no amenity value.