IT'S enough to make Tarzan and Jane jealous. A tree house with all mod-cons, including light and heating, dining table and a sweeping spiral staircase is set to be built in a Herefordshire back garden.

Reading, writing and meals among the treetops could become a reality for Colwall's David Bounds and his family if the secluded retreat receives the blessing of planners.

But neighbours fear their privacy could be lost, as the tree house will stand nearly two metres above the ground, so they are objecting to the development.

The sight of a treetop haven 15 years ago has remained with Mr Bounds, who has wanted his own ever since that day.

Mr Bounds, who is a member of The Woodland Trust, said: "Since that day I have always wanted a tree house, but I needed to buy a house which would make it possible. We would like to have a quiet, secluded place amongst the trees."

Electricity for light and heating, a six-seater dining table, a spiral staircase and a small balcony area form part of the luxury design.

A specialist company from Scotland has drawn up the plans for the tree house, which will be tucked behind a conifer tree, and 1.8 metres above the ground.

The development at the Gouldings in Old Church Road is planned for a corner of the garden, among a group of mature trees, next to the road.

Mr Bounds and his wife Pamela live at Walwyn Road in Colwall, and intend to move into the Gouldings once renovation work to the property has been finished.

Colwall parish councillors are opposed to the unusual proposal, saying its size and height are unsuitable, particularly in a conservation area.

But Herefordshire Council planning officer Russell Pryce says the tree house will be built from high-quality natural materials, giving it a rustic appearance.

Mr Pryce says the tree house will be supported entirely by a timber post, with only four branches needing to be removed from the tree.

Herefordshire Council's northern area planning committee members were making a decision on the application at a meeting yesterday (Wednesday) afternoon.