A plan to build a modern home on the edge of Bracknell in Chavey Down has been refused by Bracknell Forest Council.
The applicant wanted a single‑storey, three‑bed house between Bracknell and Ascot, but planners said it would damage woodland in the gap and the site is protected by a tree preservation order (TPO).
Planning officers warned the proposals would harm the woodland character and prevent parts of it from naturally regenerating.
Some councillors questioned that. Cllr Tony Virgo said trees regrow quickly and argued the surrounding forest would still thrive.
Council officers countered that the areas proposed for building are currently part of the woodland as a whole, so development would be a loss to that unit and to its ability to grow.
Councillors followed planning officer Shelley Clark's recommendation to refuse the application, with Cllr Sheila Collins stressing the TPO protects not just individual trees but the understory and regeneration of the wood.
Cllr Patrick Smith said the council must be consistent in how it treats trees and natural heritage, and not pick and choose where to enforce protections.
Cllrs Virgo and Tina McKenzie‑Boyle argued the modest house could be sensitively added, but they were unable to vote because they took part by video.
The plan was refused at the meeting on 16 July. You can view the rejected application by entering reference 24/00724/FUL on the council planning portal.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
