I would be concerned about having a hedge (Horniman Triangle) subject to a conservation order, as proposed by the FHS. Hedges are not trees. They are functional items which tend to grow fairly fast, as compared with trees, and hence need regular pruning and often replacement as not all hedges fare well next to busy thoroughfares. I would have thought imposing such a restriction on a hedge would mean that Conservation Area consent would be required before any pruning was carried out. As this is a play area funded and maintained by the Council I would also be concerned about how this might affect the early years budget for this area and also of course how much this would cost.

I would like to know the logic and reason behind this particular request.

Can I also ask in the case of the additional individual properties proposed by the FHS whether the owners consent in each case was sought before this decision was made, and also what discussion was taken in respect of Article 4, which adds particular constraints , even to a Conservation Area?