Southern Road Recreation Ground Lime Tree: Update and Further Information
As part of Project Link to deliver the Community and Youth Centre, we can confirm that the planned felling of the lime tree on Thursday 9th April will not take place due to nesting activity. The council will now wait until the tree can be reassessed and any works can proceed in line with ecological requirements.
We understand that people will be saddened by the plans to remove this lime tree, and we share that sadness. Mature trees are an important part of the character of the park and the wider community. The decision to remove the tree as part of the approved plans for the new Community and Youth Centre has not been taken lightly. Before reaching that point, options to retain the tree were carefully explored, but it has been confirmed that these were not viable.
Thame Town Council recognises how deeply people care about this space and welcomes questions and suggestions. Anyone wishing to discuss the lime tree removal or Project Link, the Community & Youth Centre, can contact the Town Council by email at info@thametowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone on 01844 212833. This webpage will be updated as the project develops.
Why is the tree not being felled at the present time?
The tree will not be felled on Thursday 9th April because nesting activity has been confirmed. Thame Town Council must comply with ecological requirements and, because nesting birds are present, works cannot proceed at the present time.
Is the tree still due to be removed?
Yes. The tree nearest the existing changing rooms is due to be removed as part of the approved plans for the new Community and Youth Centre. Any future removal will be subject to the required ecological checks at that time.
Was the removal reviewed by the relevant officers?
Yes. The District Council’s Tree Officer reviewed the proposals, noted the efforts made to retain the tree, and did not object to its removal or to the replacement planting scheme as part of the formal planning process in 2023. The Tree Officer’s comments are available on the planning application website P23/S0644/FUL.
What replacement planting is planned?
Under council policy, two replacement trees are required. In addition, the wider landscaping scheme includes a further 13 new trees. While new planting does not replace the immediate presence of a mature tree, it will help create a greener setting around the new centre over time. Further information will be shared as the project progresses, including tree species and wider landscaping proposals.
Why could the tree not be retained?
A range of design options were explored during the planning and design process to try to retain the tree, recognising its amenity and biodiversity value. However, it has been confirmed that retaining the tree is not viable. The options considered would have created hidden or enclosed spaces around the building, giving rise to concerns about visibility and the safety of park users. It was also concluded that, if the tree were retained, it would in time require significant pruning to avoid damage to the building, which would substantially reduce its value and significance. Further detail can be found on page 9 of the Design & Access Statement, submitted as part of the planning application.
Can any part of the tree be reused?
The council is exploring ways to repurpose the timber from the tree and is in early discussions with local schools about possible uses.
Where can residents see the full planning details?
This decision to remove the tree was approved in 2023 in accordance with the plans for the new Community & Youth Centre and can be viewed P23/S0644/FUL . Details of the landscaping proposals are also available on this planning application website.
What about the Discharge of Planning Conditions?
We are working with our Planning Consultants and Architects to ensure we have discharged the pre-commencement planning conditions for the project ahead of starting works. The original Arboriculture Report was issued in January 2023 and a follow up report has been commissioned, which the architects are chasing as this was expected before Easter.
As the relevant planning conditions are discharged (approved) we will add the details to our website to make it easier for residents to follow the progress in this area.
Updated: 14 April 2026