A HIGH COURT judicial review began today into plans by an energy giant to fell a historic woodland to make space for buildings and car parks.

The structure is part of the development of the proposed new Sizewell C nuclear power station in East Suffolk.

Tory-controlled East Suffolk Council has given planning permission to French state-owned EDF energy to fell the woodland in advance of the development. 

A legal challenge against the granting of planning permission is being mounted by the Together Against Sizewell C (TASC) campaign.

The campaigners argue that the felling of the trees will cause untold damage to a historic woodland, where some trees are around 100 years old.

They said that permission for the felling should not have been given ahead of permission being granted for the construction of Sizewell C.

TASC chair Pete Wilkinson said: “On the outcome of this judgement hangs the fate of a 100-year-old wood which is held in deep affection by the people of East Suffolk and those who live around Leiston and rely on the peace and tranquillity it offers.

“It is a refuge for a wide range of flora and fauna and part of our treasured heritage.

“The judge can surely only agree that the planning permission granted by East Suffolk Council was premature in that the EDF application to build Sizewell C is over a year away from being accepted or refused by the secretary of state.”

A spokesman for East Suffolk Council said the council will defend its decision to grant planning permission.