Boughton Lane Maidstone – In a precedent-setting decision, the Secretary of State accepted his Inspector’s findings on ancient woodland that upheld the case advanced by FLAC Principal Julian Forbes-Laird, and Aspect Ecology Principal Alistair Baxter

Cowdale – Insertion of an HGV access road through ancient woodland. Appeal dismissed, though FLAC arguments on ancient woodland matters accepted. Christopher Boyle QC

Marringdean Road – Residential development within recently harvested woodland protected by TPO, adjacent to ancient woodland, the site being itself later claimed in evidence to be ancient woodland. Appeal allowed. Christopher Boyle QC

Sibly Hall Mast – Insertion of telecoms mast into ancient woodland. Appeal allowed. Chris Young

Stifford Road – Insertion of 1000 lorry-per-day HGV access through derelict ancient woodland with restorative mitigation proposed. Appeal dismissed, through FLAC arguments on ancient woodland matters accepted. Christiaan Zwart

Clear View Farm Heathfield – Insertion of no-dig drainage connection through ancient woodland buffer zones to discharge into woodland watercourse accepted by Inspector as not leading to loss or deterioration.

Downlands Farm – Insertion of several no-dig drainage connections through ancient woodland buffer zones to discharge into woodland watercourses accepted by Inspector as not leading to loss or deterioration. Drainage proposals rested in large part on highly detailed mapping of phyto-hydrological indicators. Lord Charles Banner KC

Orchard Farm – Complex case with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust arguing against the adequacy of 100-150m buffer zones plus comprehensive mitigation measures for visitor access management. Appeal allowed. John Lytton KC

If you have an ancient woodland planning case on which you would like our consultation on please do get in touch.