Bird nests are damaged during tree felling in Hamont-Achel: “This is not possible during the breeding season” (Hamont-Achel)

At the beginning of this week, about thirty trees were felled along Beukenlaan and Achel Statie in Achel for planned sewerage works. Many old beech trees were removed, but also a number of more recently planted trees. The felling of trees caused a storm of outrage on social media. The residents believe that these works are not possible during the breeding season.

The felling works were permitted by the province, albeit under strict conditions that were adopted from the advice of the Nature and Forests Agency. “We have of course applied for a permit to fell these trees,” says a Fluvius spokesperson. “However, the permit states that the trees had to be checked for nests given the breeding season. Unfortunately, this did not happen due to an error by our contractor. We would like to apologize for this and have also discussed this with our contractor. We will ensure that this is done correctly in subsequent projects.”

The works started on May 2. “Several trees had to be felled in order to carry out the new sewerage and works by other utility companies according to the set deadlines. For every tree we cut down, we also plant a new one so that the impact on the environment is minimal.”

Complaint

The neighborhood reacts with incomprehension. According to a local resident, a Jay was breeding in the tree in front of her house. “After the felling, I found the broken eggs on the roadside.” The office of Deputy Inge Moors (CD&V) recommends filing a complaint if the conditions of a permit are violated. “We impose clear conditions that must be adhered to, but we are not responsible for enforcement. If there is any doubt about compliance with the conditions, a complaint must therefore be filed.”

Bats

Mayor Tom Cox (CD&V) is indignant. “The presence of bats was checked with thermal cameras, but the birds’ nests were not checked. The damage to bird nests is difficult to estimate. We ourselves are faced with a fait accompli. Fluvius has informed us that it will enter into dialogue with the contractor. It is up to Fluvius to declare him in default if necessary. We will also discuss this incident at the council of aldermen and see what action we as a city will take. Residents know how strictly we monitor our own felling permits and it is not nice to be confronted with an infringement in this way. “The city of Hamont-Achel is already asking the Nature Inspectorate to conduct an investigation.