Pictured: The cliff after the trees were removed (Image: BNPS)However, neighbours said it was about improving his views. Bill said he had been in discussions with the council and Natural England and both were on board with his plans. He took Natural England to the High Court to challenge the penalty, which he claimed was 'disproportionate and manifestly excessive'. He also claimed that he had been 'open and co-operative' with Natural England throughout the process. Nick Squirrel, from Natural England, said geological features on the protected land have been 'permanently damaged' and cannot be restored.