TWO DIRECTIONS hearings at Tasmania’s planning tribunal have been held after Meander Valley Council blocked an application to build three units at 34 Marriott Street, Westbury in August.

Following the council’s rejection, the block was the site where the branches of six neighbouring heritage trees aged 100–150 years old were removed by the prospective developer, Robert Grey.

Mr Grey appealed in RMPAT after the council rejected his planning application.

He said the trees’ branches, overhanging from the historic Fitzpatrick’s Inn garden, were a safety risk and had them lopped. This was legal because Heritage Tasmania had bungled the trees’ heritage listing.

RMPAT has advised that Mr Grey’s appeal is in the early stages and yet to be listed for mediation or a full hearing.