Arboriculture
WHLandscape is highly experienced in the field of arboriculture, specifically trees in relation to the planning system and BS5837 (2012) surveys - Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction - recommendations. Much of our arboricultural work is undertaken in conjunction with the landscape services that we provide, allowing for a coordinated and cost-effective approach for our clients.
WHLandscape offers a range of arboricultural services, from individual tree and hedgerow inspections to complex tree and woodland surveys, arboricultural impact assessments, arboricultural method statements and woodland management plans. We also provide comprehensive advice in respect of Tree Preservation Orders and trees in Conservation Areas, as well as advice on the protection and management of veteran trees. On sites where trees and hedgerows present a constraint, our work can be tailored to help guide development proposals and maximise site potential.
Existing trees are important features of many development sites, whether on or near the working areas, they can provide a level of maturity to the landscape and enhanced biodiversity value. Trees are a material consideration in the UK planning system and their survey provides a specialist, technical report to the standards detailed in BS5837 (2012) Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction. Recommendations. The report specifies the steps that should be taken to ensure that trees are appropriately and successfully retained and protected during the design, demolition and construction phases of a development.
The production of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) is a recommendation of BS5837: 2012. It determines the site-specific effects of planned development on the existing tree stock and identifies the long-term value and benefits of trees in the urban and built environment. The AIA also identifies trees to be removed and those to be retained. It highlights the potential conflicts between retained trees and the planned development, including the effects of breaching the tree's Root Protection Area; shading resulting from the tree crowns, and the effects of future growth of the trees.
An Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) is often conditioned as a requirement of a planning permission and must be provided to and agreed by the local planning authority to enable the planning condition to be discharged. An AMS details how the development process will be carried out close to trees without causing damage to the crown or the root system. Adherence to an AMS will ensure contractors do not accidentally damage trees during construction.
Advice on Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) and Trees in Conservation Areas is provided by WHLandscape. We will also help with and submit your application or notification for works to protected trees. TPOs are made by the local planning authority, to protect specific trees, groups of trees or woodlands in the interests of amenity and which may be under threat, usually from proposed development. Trees in designated conservation areas are also protected and works to them requires six weeks prior notice to the local planning authority If it has a diameter at breast height greater than 75mm for individual trees and 100mm if part of a group or woodland.
A Woodland Management Plan provides landowners and managers with a planned way to organise the sustainable management of woodland to the UK Forestry Standard. It applies to all woodland and woodland operations, regardless of who owns or manages it. WHLandscape can help with creating a woodland management plan to demonstrate sustainable forest management and support the planning and implementation of work proposals and their long-term monitoring.