In Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, a property developer has removed oak trees without permission. A dispute has arisen over a development project being carried out by RJ House, a company based in Legionowo. Several magnificent trees were uprooted on the construction site at the junction of Sadowa and Młodzieżowa streets, which is believed to have been done without authorisation. Consequently, the matter has already been referred to the law enforcement authorities.
Developer removed oak trees despite ban
According to local officials, the oak trees were growing on a plot earmarked for the construction of a seven-storey building. The trunks were approximately 2 metres in circumference, and the trees’ health was not a cause for concern. The city was conducting proceedings regarding potential permission for their removal and was awaiting a further opinion from a court-appointed expert. However, before any decision was made, officials received footage showing excavators felling the oak trees and uprooting them. Mayor Sebastian Sosiński clearly emphasises that the developer did not have a permit, which is why his actions were deemed unauthorised.
Inspection blocked by the developer
Upon receiving information about the tree felling, council staff and the municipal police attempted to carry out an inspection. However, they were not allowed onto the construction site. Consequently, the police were called, but they too were denied access to the site. The city therefore decided to secure evidence using a drone. The mayor also appealed to residents who witnessed the felling of the oak trees to provide any information that might help clarify the circumstances of the case.
Dispute over the height of the building
The controversy surrounding the development is not limited solely to the issue of trees. The building is set to be significantly taller than the surrounding buildings, whilst the current local development plan was drawn up around 20 years ago and contains vague provisions which today raise numerous doubts as to their interpretation. The District Office had previously refused to grant a building permit. However, the developer appealed to the provincial governor and ultimately obtained approval. The mayor adds that the local council is not involved in the procedure for issuing such permits, but is responsible for decisions regarding the removal of trees.
The developer has removed the oak trees; the police are investigating
The city authorities have filed a report with the public prosecutor’s office regarding a possible offence, and the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection is also to be informed of the matter. The mayor himself has already been questioned at the District Police Headquarters and has provided officers with full documentation regarding the incident. The police have confirmed that they are investigating a possible breach of Article 181 of the Criminal Code, which concerns significant damage to the plant or animal world. Such an offence carries a penalty of between six months and eight years’ imprisonment. Representatives of RJ House did not comment in detail on the allegations, limiting themselves to stating that they would not comment on the matter.
Source:Sebastian Sosiński, Mayor of Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki/Facebook, money.pl
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