If you are planning on undertaking a development, whether new builds or to improve an existing building, then you will require a tree survey that is compliant with BS 5837:2012 Trees in Relation to Design , Demolition, and Construction – Requirements.

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This survey will provide information to both the developer and the Local Planning Authority. The information provided from this survey will inform your design layout to ensure that you are maximising the potential of your site and also to show the Planning Authority that the trees on the site will be protected and retained where necessary through the development process.

Trees are important and provide us with a large amount of benefits, including  amenity value, ecological and environmental benefits as well as economic benefits. BS5837 recommendations aim to ensure that there is a harmonious relationship between trees and developments that can be sustain long term.

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The standards must be complied with when trees are on, or near a development, this is the case even when planning permission is not required.

 

What is involved?

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There are three stages involved with BS5837, it is not always necessary to obtain all three stages for your development.

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Stage One – Tree survey and Constraints Plan

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This is the first step and will be required as part of your planning application, this stage will also be needed if you do not require planning permission.

A site visit is undertaken when all trees, groups of tree and hedges will be identified. Information regarding their size, spread and rooting area will be collected and the trees will be categorised identifying their quality and value.

This information is then used to aid the design of your development without impacting the retained trees and also which trees should be removed and which should be retained.

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A Tree Constrains Plan and a detailed report will be provided.

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Stage Two – Arboricultural Impact Assessment, Tree Protection Plan, Tree Works Specification

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At this stage the information gained during step one is utilised along with architects’ drawings to show if there will be any potential impacts or conflicts with the proposed design.

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A detailed assessment will be undertaken to identify any potential impacts or conflicts and if necessary will advise where changes need to be made in order to be successful with your planning application. Areas that need to be addresses by the Method Statement will also be outlined where necessary.

Along with the Arboricultural Impact Assessment a Tree Protection Plan will be created show where protection methods are necessary to avoid damage to retained trees. Where necessary a Tree Works Schedule will also be produce to facilitate development. 

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Stage Three – Detailed Method Statement

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A detailed Method Statement is often required by the Local Authority as a Discharge of Conditions, this document details how the development can be undertaken whilst protecting any retained trees.

The Method Statement covers areas such as the prevention of compaction of Root Protection Areas, any construction required within the Root Protection area where necessary, and the siting of storage and facilities on site.

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If you have any queries or would like a quote for the provision of these services please get in touch. Due to working as a Tree Officer within Local Authority I have in depth knowledge of what information and outcomes that Planning require in order granting permission on a development where trees are retained.