Chester protesters vow to continue Tylers Avenue appeal

Plans to build a 14-storey tower block branded “brutalist” in Tylers Avenue, Southend were green-lit by the planning inspectorate last week following a lengthy appeal by developer Vikesh Kotecha.

Environmental campaigners feared a nearby London plane tree, affectionately named Chester, would be removed if the block was built are attempting to have a tree protection order put on the tree and hosting numerous marches and events around it. 

Tree - Chester the Tree (Image: Newsquest)

While the planning inspector noted the proposal would result in the loss of the tree, they disregarded the need to reject the plans to build the tower block of 58 flats for the sake of Chester.

Katy Treverton, co-founder of the Save Chester campaign group, said: “Obviously this is disappointing, as it means the hurdle of the development in Chester’s retention continues.

“However, looking on the bright side, now the legal process of this planning appeal is complete, it means we can re-establish dialogue with Highways, Southend Council and, if need be, the architect and developer.

“We are slightly down, but certainly not out - rest assured, the campaign to save Chester continues.”

SkArchitects director, Steven Kearney, speaking to the Echo last week, noted the proposed removal of Chester was determined “solely due to pre-existing highway safety concerns, prior to any development discussions with the council”.

A spokesman for Southend Tree Action Group added: “This is absolutely devastating and terrible, we are not happy with that as it will mean that Chester will be taken.

“With planning, nothing nature-based is taken into consideration, which is absolutely disgusting, I am just speechless they are going on the basis of this.”

Mr Kearney insisted the developer recognises the importance of greenery and will include a new public square on the corner of Tylers Avenue.