A review has been promised after fears were raised about building work at a former convent in Isleworth damaging protected trees.
Nearly 100 homes are being built at Isleworth House and its grounds in Richmond Road, Isleworth , which formerly belonged to The Sisters of Nazareth.
Neighbouring residents have raised the alarm over the safety of mature trees at the site, better known as Nazareth House.
They claim builders are breaching the planning conditions, requiring a fenced-off "root protection area" around trees within which no work can take place.
The developer St James has said it regularly reviews its measures to ensure trees are adequately protected, and said it had arranged an additional review in light of residents' concerns.
Charles Dawson, who lives in Heron Place, opposite the development, said: "There is serious concern that mature trees retained on the site are being damaged during building work. The retained mature trees are particularly valued, as many were felled from the parkland landscape to enable the building work...
"Trees can suffer huge damage during building work, due to pressure on their roots and compaction of soil, typically caused by construction vehicles. This damage may not be visible initially but can result in the tree’s death or ill-health in future years."
'Issues will be addressed'
He said St James had made some improvements after residents complained back in January but workers were still breaching planning conditions.
He said heavy vehicles were still driving well within the designated protection zone for two mature lime trees, as illustrated in his photo above.
Paul Hopkins, managing director of St James London North, said: "St James is in contact with Hounslow Council in relation to tree protection measures and regularly reviews the protection to ensure trees are adequately protected.
"As a result of this enquiry St James has arranged a specific review. Any issues will be addressed accordingly."
St James got planning permission in September 2014 to build a gated development of 98 homes at the riverside site, and work began early the following year.
The Grade II-listed white stuccoed building, known as the White House or Isleworth House, was originally built for George III's physician.
The house, chapels and stables are being converted into flats, and 39 new family houses are being built, along with 36 extra care apartments for older residents.
