A DEVELOPER has hit out over a report concerning damage to trees in Christchurch's Druitt Gardens.

Members of Christchurch council's planning committee will discuss a number of issues relating to the Renaissance Retirement development at the former Cornfactor site, at a meeting tonight.

The retirement complex sparked controversy when a number of protected trees were damaged on the site just days after protection orders were placed on them in 2014.

The trees were damaged during an archaeological dig on the site and felled by council tree surgeons after an inspection from the council's tree officer.

Residents protested over the damage, with Christchurch council's scrutiny committee later reporting a 'misunderstanding' between the developer and council had led to the tree felling.

At tonight's meeting, members will hear about recent damage caused to a silver birch tree near the flats.

The report says: "One of a group of silver birch planted near the flats has been topped by persons unknown, probably to increase light in, or views from one of the flats."

The council is suggesting relocating the group of trees to avoid further problems.

Peter Tanner, planning director at Renaissance Retirement, said: "We are aware that persons unknown have damaged one of a group of three Silver Birch within Druitt Gardens, which is very much regretted, but we most strongly refute the implied suggestion in the Officer’s report that this may have been carried out to increase light in or views from one of the retirement flats.

"This is pure speculation on the part of the Officer and is not based on fact."

He said the development had been a resounding success, "significantly improving" the appearance of the site and gardens.

Mr Tanner added: "It is something for people who love Christchurch to be proud of. It is disappointing that there are a few people out there whose negative attitudes are blinding them from seeing the benefits that this development has at last brought to this part of the town."

Other items under discussion include the replacement planting of two oak trees and the repositioning of another to allow better access for vehicles.