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Planning officials are investigating concerns over the destruction of hedgerow at a Taylor Wimpey housing development in Blackwood.

Residents have photographed diggers ripping up the hedgerow at the Cwmgelli development with worries it will affect nesting birds and other wildlife.

There are also worries the hedgerow might be protected, although the council has said it is not classed as ‘ancient’.

Blackwood councillor Nigel Dix said: “I am very angry that Taylor Wimpey saw fit to destroy the hedgerow.

“This is not acceptable and not the kind behaviour I expect from a reputable building company.

“We are in the middle of the nesting season and Taylor Wimpey’s disregard for the environment needs to be addressed.

“I have asked the council planning department to investigate and act. Taylor Wimpey needs to replant the hedgerow.

“Residents have put up with years of noise, flooding, dust and general nuisance from the Taylor Wimpy site and this is just the latest example of what I believe is a cavalier attitude towards residents.”

A Caerphilly County Borough Council spokesperson said “We are aware that works to the hedgerow along Cwm Gelli Villas have taken place and the matter is being investigated.

“This is not a protected ancient hedgerow, but there may be some planning conditions attached to the planning application, and these will be looked at as part of the investigation.”

A Taylor Wimpey spokesperson said: “We understand the concerns raised by Cllr Nigel Dix and local residents and would like to assure them that preserving and enhancing local wildlife is a key consideration when we plan and build new developments.

“We are currently looking into the matter regarding the hedgerow removal and we will provide Cllr Dix with an update once we have investigated further.”