Local planning authorities have
specific powers to protect trees by making Tree Preservation Orders
(TPOs), although the Forestry Commission is responsible for the
control of felling generally.
A TPO is an
order made by the local planning authority which in general makes
it an offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or
wilfully destroy a tree without the planning authority's
permission. Its purpose is to protect trees that are significant in
their local surroundings. All types of trees may be protected,
including hedgerow trees, but not hedges, bushes or shrubs. The
order can cover anything from a single tree to whole woodlands.
For more
information see
Protected trees:a guide to tree preservation
procedures
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tree-preservation-procedures-guidance
Tree Preservation Orders: A Guide to the Law and Good
Practice
together
with A Guide to the Law and Good Practice Addendum
- May 2009
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tree-preservation-orders-guidance
Trees within Conservation Areas are also protected and where
works are sought to these trees, it is necessary to give prior
notice to the council.
The Council encourages responsible tree care undertaken by
arboricultural professionals and welcomes carefully considered
applications for consent to carry out reasonable and justified
works to protected trees. Just as importantly, the Council
seeks to preserve quality trees within the environment for the
benefit of the wider community and will seek the retention of
appropriate trees on development sites for this
reason. BS5837:2012 Trees in relation to design,
demolition & construction sets out the good
practice in relation to trees on development sites the Council will
expect to see adhered to.
The website of the
Arboricultural Association provides helpful advice on the
employment of professional arborists.
We will actively promote planting the right tree in the right
place.
Guidance and application forms for Applications to work on
protected trees
Guidance on making applications for works to
Tree Preservation Order trees and trees in Conservation
Areas