The current guidance on tree surveys and in general on trees in the development context is contained within BS5837: 2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition & construction – Recommendations.

There is an expectation that any tree survey carried out for a planning application should be carried out by an arboriculturist before the design process starts such that the tree survey guides the design process. In reality however it is often the case that the tree survey is only carried out after the initial feasibility study and preliminary designs have been undertaken, which can often result in delays to the application process and costly design revisions where important and / or protected trees need to be retained within a development.

We have an enormous amount of in-house talent, well versed in the intricacies of planning, development and BS5837, with well in excess of 30 years experience and thousands of sites under our belt spanning the whole country. Having this level of experience, as well as an in-depth knowledge of local planning policy and positive tree officer relationships can give you a strategic advantage from the outset.