The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that trees located within or immediately adjacent to proposed development sites are a material planning consideration, regardless of their protection status. This means that local planning authorities require arboricultural information in order to validate applications and to assist planning officers in determining whether proposed development is acceptable with regard to trees.
Our consultants have a wealth of planning experience and can work closely with the design team to provide the necessary support through the development process, from concept to completion.
Feasibility & Initial Advice
An initial site meeting can be arranged where we can assess the trees on your site and provide you with guidance on the tree constraints of the site and how best to proceed with your project.
Tree Survey & Tree Constraints Plan
Before any assessment of arboricultural issues can be made a survey of the trees that may be affected 
by the proposals is necessary. The survey records basic dimensions and condition details as set out in British Standard 5837:2012 ‘Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction – Recommendations’. This information then is added to a plan of the existing layout and helps us to identify those trees that need to be kept, those that are expendable, and where proposed development should be kept away from trees. This information is invaluable for architects in designing layouts that get the best out of the land available and the existing trees on a site.
Arboricultural Impact Assessment, Tree Protection Plan & Method Statement
Once the site layout is finalised, a report is prepared that identifies and evaluates all the
foreseeable impacts on existing trees, including from the construction process and future use. The report includes a provisional arboricultural method statement and tree protection plan that identifies how the development can be carried out in a way that minimises any damage to trees. This report is submitted to the local planning authority as part of the application pack and can be used as a working document during development.
Pre-Commencement Site Meeting & Supervision
Conditions placed on the planning consent may require a pre-commencement site meeting with the local authority’s tree officer and supervision of arboriculturally sensitive operations during construction. Where this is the case, we can provide you with the necessary arboricultural support throughout the construction phase.
