Arboricultural Expert Services for Planning and Development

A professional who is knowledgeable in the management of trees and woodlands is called an arboricultural expert. Their expertise is typically sought out to evaluate and offer advice on the management, health, and benefits of individual trees, as well as forested areas.

Tree consultancy services are frequently needed by professionals involved in site development, such as construction industry professionals, landscape designers, and architects. They may also be sought by property owners who require planning permission for property development or renovation.

Tree experts typically use a range of tools and techniques to conduct their surveys, including visual inspections, tree climbing, measurement and mapping tools, and testing. They may also use specialised software and data analysis tools to process and interpret their findings.

When granting planning permission for new developments that may affect nearby trees, local authorities are required to consider the impact on trees, which are protected under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Consequently, a tree survey or assessment is often necessary.

Trees that bring a significant benefit to a local area may be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO). A TPO is administered by Local Planning Authorities and no species is automatically protected by a TPO; however, a TPO can be administered on any type of tree. Shrubs, hedges and bushes cannot be protected by a TPO.

If a tree is protected by a TPO, it becomes a criminal offence to wilfully damage, destroy, cut down, top, or top said tree without obtaining permission from the local authority. The local planning authorities, therefore, need to consider the impact a development could have on a tree or woodland when granting planning permission.

Collington Winter Environmental offer a range of tree work consultancy services to all locations of the United Kingdom. Our arboricultural consultancy services include:

• Tree condition surveys
• Aerial tree inspections
• BS5837 tree surveys
• Arboricultural method statements/ tree protection plans
• Tree impact assessments
• Site monitoring and tree supervision
• Tree health and safety reports to prevent personal injury

If you would like to speak to an arboricultural expert about any of our services, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Collington Winter Environmental believes in a mindful approach to development. We meet the needs of our clients, whilst ensuring positive outcomes for surrounding wildlife. We work alongside developers to find solutions and build relationships. We believe that ecologists can earn a valuable seat at design team meetings to identify potential constraints and opportunities for clients.

We believe that an early consultation, a positive mindset and in-depth knowledge of ecological best practice is the best way to improve your chances of a successful project.

To find out how an arboricultural expert from our team could assist with your project, contact us using the details below.