Rooted in Regulations: The Impact of Trees on Planning Applications

Trees not only play a critical role in our environment but can also significantly impact the planning and execution of a development project. In particular, protected trees introduce additional considerations, both in terms of time and cost. This article delves into the potential implications that trees, especially protected ones, can have on your planning application.

• Understanding Tree Protection
• Impact of Trees on Planning Applications
• Conducting a Tree Survey
• Mitigating the Impact on Trees
• Factoring in Time and Cost
• Conclusion

Understanding Tree Protection

Certain trees in the UK are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). These orders, issued by local planning authorities, are designed to safeguard trees that contribute significantly to their surroundings. Trees within designated conservation areas are also protected. Cutting down, uprooting, pruning, damaging, or destroying a protected tree without prior authority permission is illegal.

There is more detail about this in our article, Tree Protection and Planning Permission.

Impact of Trees on Planning Applications

The presence of trees, particularly protected ones, can significantly impact planning applications. Proposals must demonstrate the consideration given to the trees and efforts made to preserve them. This can influence the design, placement, or even the feasibility of the proposed development.

Conducting a Tree Survey

A tree survey, conducted by a qualified arborist, may be necessary as part of your planning application. This survey identifies the species, size, and health of the trees, assesses their amenity value, and suggests measures to protect them during construction. The cost of such surveys varies but can range from a few hundred to over a thousand pounds depending on the size of the site and the number of trees involved. The process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.

Mitigating the Impact on Trees

Applications should detail measures to protect trees during the project. This could include no-dig construction techniques near trees, protective fencing around root areas, and ensuring site staff are trained in tree protection measures. These precautionary actions can add additional costs to your project and may require extra time for preparation and execution.

Factoring in Time and Cost

The presence of protected trees can extend the planning process, as additional approval may be required before any work can begin. Furthermore, incorporating tree preservation into your development plan might result in increased construction costs. Early identification of any protected trees and the potential costs involved is, therefore, crucial to budgeting accurately and planning your project timeline.

Conclusion

While trees can add complexity to planning applications, understanding the regulations and taking the appropriate steps to protect them can contribute to a successful application. With proper budgeting and schedule allowances, trees can be preserved and incorporated into your development in a manner that enhances the project’s value.

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