Referred to by locals as a “nature haven”, the land on the outskirts of King’s Lynn was reinvigorated in 2012 as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

The six-acre woodland, which borders Springwood High School and provides a green corridor linking a cycle path with nearby homes, hosts a wide range of wildlife that locals fear is now at risk.

The woodland was revamped in 2012 as part of the Queen's 2012 Jubilee (Image: Rob Colwell)

But the plot was sold in May for £31,000 to Andreas Panteli, a London-based estate agent, instantly sparking anger among locals who say they have enjoyed the area for years.

Soon after taking ownership, Mr Panteli began work to prepare the wood for the country sport activities he plans to carry out in memory of his father, who died last year.

He also wanted to plant fig and olive trees that had once resided in his father’s garden.

The sound of chainsaws prompted swift complaints.

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) was imposed in September, but Mr Panteli, 47, has since submitted an application to complete the work.

The site was purchased by Mr Panteli in May (Image: Rob Colwell)

More than 110 objections have been lodged in response to the application.

“We are running out of woodland,” one local wrote.

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© Eastern Daily Press