Representing clients in a dispute over tree-felling near dwellings, residential areas and green infrastructure

RASK is representing local residents in a dispute concerning permission for clear-cutting in the immediate vicinity of residential areas and within green infrastructure.

The existing comprehensive spatial plan prohibits clear-cutting more than 2 hectares in the contact zone, defined as a 200-metre radius around dwellings. The felling area is also part of green infrastructure (more specifically, a green corridor), established to preserve natural value. The study found that the area is a key component of the green infrastructure and possesses high ecological value, indicating that construction activities and clear-cutting should be avoided in this area. Despite this, the Environmental Board issued forest notices for clear-cutting in these areas.

The complainants turned to the court to protect their rights, as the implementation of the disputed forest notices would destroy a significant portion of their living environment and greatly increase various negative impacts (such as wind, noise and pollution) in the area. There are few ecologically valuable natural environments in densely populated areas, and the size of the existing ones is continuously decreasing.

Given that the clear-cutting area is located within the contact zone around the clients’ residences, the adverse effects of the significant reduction of this valuable natural environment through clear-cutting would be particularly pronounced for the local residents, causing them considerable harm.