The Department of Environment has launched an enquiry after apparently 'protected' trees were felled in Co Down.

A developer is alleged to have moved onto the site in the 'dead of night' in order to clear the way for a substantial number of apartments to be built.

A DoE spokesperson said: "Planning Service can confirm that investigations into a possible

breach of planning control in the Bryansford area of Newcastle are ongoing, however, we cannot comment on the details of the investigation at this stage."

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Meanwhile, a Stormont Assembly member has called for £30,000 fines to be imposed for the

destruction of the protected trees.

Jim Wells of the DUP was speaking after the 50 trees were felled on a private estate on the

outskirts of Newcastle in County Down. Mr Wells said he was disgusted by what happened at

Myrtle Lodge: "I am very, very angry and so are all the surrounding residents.

"Bit by bit Newcastle is being destroyed by this type of activity," he said.

"We need to make an example of this particular incident to make sure it doesn't happen again."

Patrick Cregg from the Woodland Trust said: "We're just absolutely appalled that yet again some more native trees have been destroyed.

"The legislation is very, very strong, but unfortunately when it comes to enforcement, there

doesn't seem to be the willingness or ability of anybody to actually enforce those protection

orders."

(BMcC)