Letter of Appeal - Patrick Sobel (294 Bessborough Ave)

Mayor and Council

Town of View Royal 45 View Royal Avenue Victoria, BC

Re: Tree Removal Permit Application Appeal - 294 Bessborough Avenue

My application to remove one birch tree (over 60 feet tall) from the center of my front yard was denied because the tree appears to be healthy and is considered a "protected and/or significant" tree in View Royal.

I planted this birch tree approximately 25 years ago and was assured by the nursery that it would only grow to a height of 30 feet. It has now grown well over twice that height.

I am asking that my tree removal permit application be reconsidered for the following reasons:

1. The tree has grown too large for my front yard.
2. As it is located in the center of my front yard, two sets of utility wires to my home run through the lower portions of the tree and are very vulnerable to falling branches.
3. A large amount of leaves and small branches are generated by such a high, broad tree which fall onto my house and yard and that of my neighbour. Both of us are finding it increasing difficult to clear out our roof gutters.
4. The tall tree shades both my yard and that of the neighbour to the west of my property. They have complained about the lack of sunlight to their front gardens for a number of years.
5. The neighbours across the street from my property have also complained about the fact that the tree now interferes with their view of Esquimalt Harbour and the Olympic Mountains.

My major short-term concern is the number of times I will need to clear my roof gutters this fall and the potential of my falling. My long-term worry is that, as the birch tree ages, a branch will fall and knock out the hydro service to my home, resulting in an expensive line replacement.

Both adjacent neighbours are in favour of removing the birch tree and have provided letters of support. Thank you for considering my request for reconsideration of my tree removal permit application.

Yours truly,

Patrick Sobel 294 Bessborough Avenue