Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a new tree and plaque planted in a green space close to the complainants home. This is because we do not consider the matter has caused the complainant a significant injustice.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains about a tree and plaque placed in a green space within a conservation area close to his home. Mr X says they were placed on the green without appropriate approval and should be removed.

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The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. We investigate complaints about ‘maladministration’ and ‘service failure’, which we call ‘fault’. We must also consider whether any fault has had an adverse impact on the person making the complaint, which we call ‘injustice’. We provide a free service, but must use public money carefully. We do not start or continue an investigation if we decide any injustice is not significant enough to justify our involvement. (Local Government Act 1974, section 24A(6), as amended, section 34(B))

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How I considered this complaint

3. I considered information provided by the complainant.
4. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.

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My assessment

5. I will not investigate Mr X’s complaint. This is because even if we were to find fault in how the Council approved the planting of the tree and laying of the plaque, I do not consider these matters have caused him a significant injustice.

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Final decision

6. We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because he has not suffered a significant personal injustice.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman