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Neighbors press developer for detailed planting plan as Radnor approves Lockwood lots
Summary
Radnor Township approved grading permits for two Lockwood subdivision lots despite residents’ concerns over heritage and hazardous tree removals; the board required applicants to submit a seven-tree replacement schedule (four large-canopy) and share landscaping plans with neighbors.
Radnor Township commissioners approved grading permits for two Lockwood Lane lots on a motion that required the developers to provide a detailed replacement-planting list for trees removed during construction.
The permits, for 15 Lockwood (Lot 4) and an adjacent lot, disclose several removals, including a hazardous 42‑inch black cherry and a hollowed maple, and a larger clearing of spruce and pine on the second lot. Trip Vaughn and Jack Barber, representing the developer, told the board they will incorporate seven replacement trees for 15 Lockwood — four large‑canopy specimens and three others — and said they will include a landscaping schedule on the final plans. "We'll just make them part of the landscape plan for that house," the applicant said.
Neighbor and HOA vice president Kinjal Patel urged clearer communication with the community and a shareable planting schedule so residents can track replacements. "As a community we are sad to be losing a significant number of trees," Patel said, noting that many trees on the development have already been removed. The board’s motion required the applicant to update the plan to show the seven replacement trees before finalization.
On the second Lockwood lot, the applicant proposed planting 26 green giants and other replacements to restore screening; neighbors raised concerns about the stock size and canopy timing. Board members and staff noted the ordinance calls for nursery stock generally in the 8–10 foot range; applicants said the green giants proposed are consistent with neighbors’ desire for fast screening.
Commissioners discussed tree protection and long‑term maintenance. Staff said replacement plantings tied to the subdivision will be planted per-lot as grading and construction conclude, and escrow or planting schedules will reflect required numbers. The board approved both permits by voice vote after the applicants agreed to update and share planting details and to show replacement trees on the record.
The board framed its approval as contingent on updating the planting schedule and documentation: the motion specifically required the plan for 15 Lockwood to be updated to show seven replacement trees, four of which must be large‑canopy species. The meeting record shows no roll‑call tally; approvals were taken by voice vote.
