Tree Survey/Assessment and Method Statement

Tree Survey/Assessment and Method Statement

When is it required?

All applications relating to works to protected trees.

All applications where development will affect existing trees on and within the vicinity of the site.

What is this?

A detailed description of the proposed works e.g. crown thinning, reduction, lifting, and felling, and the reasons for it. Where pruning works are proposed precise detail of the extent of work should be submitted e.g. 30% crown thinning or raise crown by 1 metre. Vague terms such as lopping/pruning are not acceptable.

Where felling is proposed the assessment must identify the physical condition of the tree and any other supporting information justifying the removal of the tree e.g. structural survey where damage to a building or structure is alleged, and written arboricultural advice relating to the health or safety of the tree(s).

Digital photographs of the existing tree(s) should be provided which should be annotated to show the proposed works.    

A Tree survey and plan as specified in   BS.5837:2012

Information on:

  1. Which trees are to be retained (including any necessary works to accommodate the development e.g. crown reduction, need for raft foundations) and which are to be removed;
  2. Means of protecting retained trees during construction works.
  3. Assessment of trees’ suitability to provide habitat for protected species

The Method Statement should provide details of the protection of trees within a development site during construction.

The information at 1 and 2 should be prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced Arboriculturalist.

The information at 3 should be prepared by a suitably qualified and experienced ecologist or by reference to the following document in respect of bats: Bat Surveys Good Practice Guidelines. 

Why is this required?

  • The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended)
  • The Town and Country Planning (Tree Preservation) (England) Regulations 2012
  • National Planning Practice Guidance
  • National Planning Policy Framework (Particularly Section 15)
  • The Town and Country Planning (Tree Preservation) (England) Regulations 2012
  • National Planning Policy Framework (particularly Section 11) and Local Plan Policy DP8

Further Advice

Anyone carrying out work to a tree should ensure they do not contravene laws protecting wildlife.