Securing planning permission for development can be a challenging process. Trees are just one of the factors that need to be considered if you are to be successful. When granting consent, Planning Authorities have a duty to make provision for the preservation or planting of trees. They are guided by British Standard 5837 "Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction - Recommendations", the industry standard that seeks to achieve a sustainable and harmonious relationship between trees, buildings and occupants. With extensive experience of the planning system through close interaction with council tree and planning officers, Hearne Arboriculture will deliver the information required to facilitate the process and help bring your plans to fruition. |
Survey, feasibility study and constraints plan
Trees can bring many benefits to a site – such as beauty, screening and increased property values – but conflicts can nevertheless arise. An initial tree survey in accordance with BS 5837 details the dimensions and quality of the trees. The data collected then informs the preparation of a constraints plan that can help assess the viability of a potential development site - or be used as a design tool to avoid the expense of drawing up detailed proposals that are unlikely to be granted planning permission for tree-related reasons. |
Arboricultural Impact Assessment
Once your preliminary design is complete, an impact assessment identifies conflicts between buildings and trees that may be unacceptable to the council and adjustments can be considered. It demonstrates to the council that the potential impact on trees is understood, that any conflicts have been avoided or resolved by the design layout or by the use of appropriate engineering solutions. Impact assessment reports together with preliminary working method statements should form an important part of the evidence base underpinning your Design and Access Statement. |
Where there are trees in proximity to your development, compliance with a submitted method statement and tree protection plan will almost certainly be a condition of consent.
Experience has shown that the key to successful tree retention lies in clear, succinct plans that comply with BS 5837 recommendations. Our method statements and protection plans are intentionally kept site specific and relevant so that crucial elements are not obscured by superfluous information. This gives the council robust enforceable documents they are more likely to approve. |