https://theromileygazette.substack.com/publish/posts/published
28th December 2025
Concerns have been raised in Romiley after council officers reportedly described references to damage at a protected woodland site as “vexatious”, prompting questions from local residents about transparency and accountability in public office.
The issue centres on a W1-designated woodland area where residents allege that protected trees were “bulldozed at the roots” during works carried out nearby. W1 woodland status is intended to offer the highest level of protection under planning policy, reflecting the ecological importance of ancient and semi-natural woodland.
According to correspondence seen by the Gazette, the Council’s Monitoring Officer and Information Governance Lead classified repeated references to the alleged damage as vexatious under information governance rules. This designation can limit how public bodies are required to respond to ongoing complaints or requests.
Local residents say they are alarmed by the characterisation.
“One of the most protected forms of habitat we have appears to have been damaged, and instead of investigating, the focus seems to be on shutting down discussion,” said one Romiley resident, who asked not to be named. “That raises serious concerns.”
Campaigners argue that describing references to environmental harm as vexatious risks discouraging legitimate scrutiny. They stress that questioning potential breaches involving protected trees should fall squarely within the public interest.
Environmental planning guidance generally requires councils to investigate and, where necessary, enforce against unauthorised works affecting protected woodland. Residents now say they want reassurance that such responsibilities are being taken seriously.
The controversy has led some in the community to ask whether senior officers tasked with upholding standards of governance and openness are acting appropriately. These are Vicki Bates, Monitoring Officer and Liz Sykes, Information Governance Lead
“This isn’t about harassment or frivolous complaints,” said another resident. “It’s about whether public officers are fit to hold office if concerns about protected woodland are dismissed rather than examined.”
The Council was invited to comment on the matter.
As pressure grows for clarity, residents are calling for an independent review of the handling of the complaint and a clear explanation of whether any investigation into the alleged tree damage has taken place.
For now, the question being asked across Romiley is not only what happened to the woodland, but whether the systems meant to protect it — and the public’s right to raise concerns — are functioning as they should.
