A Rickmansworth developer has been fined £1,000 for damaging a protected tree by building a wall over its roots.

Three Rivers District Council said it successfully prosecuted Shandler Homes, based on The Drive, Rickmansworth, following a three-day trial at St Albans Magistrates’ Court.

The authority argued that the development breached a tree preservation order protecting the tree. The company was also ordered to pay £10,000 costs.

Following the conviction, councillor Keith Williams, cabinet member for leisure and community, said: “The developer was in breach of the tree preservation order that was in place.

“This case should send out a clear warning to others that damaging, pruning, or felling protected trees has serious consequences, and that the council will not hesitate to take action against them.

“There are over 750 Tree Preservation Orders in place across the district and the council will continue to protect our most valuable trees.”