A MILLIONAIRE who hacked down 11 protected trees in the 'worst environmental crime of its kind ever seen in Poole' is to appear before a judge next month.

David Matthews, of Flambards in Arrowsmith Road, Wimborne, will face a Proceeds of Crime Act hearing in May after admitting contravening a tree preservation order at his home in February of this year.

The 66-year-old was initially charged with four offences. However, prosecutors acting for the Borough of Poole withdrew three of the allegations.

A tree preservation order, or TPO, was made by the local authority in March 2001.

Magistrates sitting in Poole on April 25 heard Matthews wilfully destroyed a mature oak, as well as beech and sweet chestnut trees, which had grown in the garden of his home. The property is thought to be worth some £2 million.

Council officials were contacted on February 12 by an informant who said a "significant number of trees" had been felled without permission during the weekend of February 10 and 11.

The court also heard Matthews had previously breached a tree preservation order in 2015.

At that time, the local authority issued a "strongly written warning" and replanted new trees.

Andy Dearing, the Borough of Poole's enforcement team manager, said: “The destruction of these 11 protected trees is the worst environmental crime of its kind we have seen in Poole.

“Over the years the council has shown a strong commitment to protecting Poole’s environment and we will continue to investigate matters brought to our attention and pursue prosecution where appropriate.”

Sentencing will take place on May 24 at Bournemouth Crown Court.

During next month's hearing, Proceeds of Crime Act proceedings will begin. The proceedings provide for the confiscation or recovery of money assessed to have been gained through the proceeds of a criminal act.

Councillor Jane Newell, ward member for Merley and Bearwood, said: "There are strict rules protecting trees to provide wildlife habitats contributing to the ecological balance of our countryside.

"These rules have clearly been breached. It will take hundreds of years for new trees to grow and replace those brutally felled.

"I am pleased that council officers have acted swiftly and brought about a successful prosecution."

Cllr Marion Pope, who also served the ward, added: "I'm grateful to everyone who had a hand in bringing this man to justice.

"In Merley and Bearwood we are in a constant battle to preserve our green infrastructure and wildlife habitats."

Samuel Wilson, of Frankland Crescent in Poole, appeared before magistrates on the same day as Matthews.

The 39-year-old has not yet entered pleas to six charges of contravening a tree preservation order last year.

The case was adjourned until June at the request of the defence.