Key Changes in the Draft Revision of BS5837: What You Need to Know

The long-awaited revision of BS5837: Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition, and Construction has introduced significant changes that will impact arboricultural planning and tree management in development projects. The updated standard, currently in draft form, moves towards a Code of Practice, reinforcing compliance and best practices for those working in construction, planning, and tree consultancy.

So, what are the key changes, and how do they affect tree surveys and planning applications? Here’s what you need to know.

1. BS5837 Becomes a Code of Practice

One of the most notable shifts is the transition of BS5837 from a set of recommendations to a formal Code of Practice. This means that compliance is expected to carry more weight in planning decisions, and following the standard will no longer be simply "best practice"—it will be an essential requirement.

2. Changes to Tree Categorization

The way trees are categorized in BS5837 has been refined, with several key adjustments:

• Category U is now Category X – This category still applies to trees unsuitable for retention due to poor condition or defects, but the name has been changed to avoid confusion with planning policies that reference Category U trees differently.

• New Category V for Veteran Trees and Ancient Woodlands – A dedicated category now recognizes the importance of veteran trees and ancient woodlands, ensuring they receive special consideration in development proposals.

• All trees now default to Category B – Instead of assigning trees directly to A, B, or C categories, the draft standard suggests that trees should start as Category B. Adjustments to Category A or C can then be made based on specific criteria. This change encourages a more structured and consistent approach to tree evaluation.

3. The Arboricultural Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ACOP)

The familiar Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) has been renamed to the Arboricultural Constraints and Opportunities Plan (ACOP). The new name reflects a broader focus, not just on limitations but also on how trees can be integrated into a development project. This change encourages a more holistic view of tree retention and planting within site planning.

4. Revised Root Protection Area (RPA) Calculations

Protecting tree roots during construction remains a priority, but the way RPAs are calculated has been adjusted:

• RPAs are now based on the stem diameter at 1.3m above ground level, aligning BS5837 with other established tree measurement practices.

• Larger RPAs for Category A and V trees – These trees now have an RPA calculated as 15 times the stem diameter, providing greater protection for the most valuable specimens.

• Introduction of a 1m buffer zone – A buffer area has been added around each RPA to minimize disturbance and improve tree survival rates on development sites.

5. Future Canopy Growth Must Be Considered

A significant new requirement is the inclusion of projected canopy growth in site assessments. Arboriculturists must now consider how trees will grow over time and how this may affect buildings, access routes, and infrastructure in the future. This proactive approach will help prevent future conflicts between trees and developments.

What This Means for Arboricultural Professionals

The draft revision of BS5837 places greater emphasis on long-term tree management, precise planning, and clearer categorization. These changes will likely impact how tree surveys are conducted and how tree-related constraints are integrated into planning applications. As the standard moves toward adoption, it will be crucial for professionals to stay informed and adapt their practices accordingly.

If you’d like to discuss how these changes could affect your project, feel free to get in touch!

The UK’s Struggle to Meet Tree Planting Targets – What Needs to Change?

The UK government has set ambitious tree planting targets as part of its strategy to combat climate change and increase biodiversity. However, recent data shows that tree planting rates have hit their lowest point in five years, raising concerns about the country’s ability to meet these goals.

The Importance of Tree Planting

Trees are a crucial tool in the fight against climate change. They absorb carbon dioxide, support wildlife, and help regulate the water cycle. The UK has pledged to plant 30,000 hectares of trees annually by 2025 to meet its climate and environmental goals. However, the latest figures suggest that the current pace of planting is far from sufficient to meet these targets.

Challenges in Tree Planting

Several factors contribute to the shortfall in tree planting. These include a lack of suitable land, bureaucratic delays in planning and funding approvals, and limited public awareness or engagement in tree planting initiatives. Additionally, the forestry sector faces challenges such as a shortage of skilled labor and the impacts of pests and diseases on new and existing woodlands.

Solutions and the Way Forward

To overcome these challenges, the UK needs a more coordinated approach involving government agencies, local authorities, private landowners, and the public. Expanding funding for tree planting projects, simplifying the application processes, and increasing public engagement through education and community initiatives are essential steps. Moreover, protecting existing woodlands and ensuring that new trees are well-maintained and resilient to climate change are critical for long-term success.

The government’s commitment to tree planting is commendable, but meeting these targets will require sustained effort and collaboration across all sectors. By addressing the current barriers to tree planting, the UK can move closer to achieving its environmental goals and creating a greener, more sustainable future.

Ancient Trees Reveal Climate Change's Impact on the UK

Recent studies analyzing ancient tree rings have revealed that the UK is experiencing its hottest summers in 2,000 years. This data underscores the accelerating pace of climate change and its profound impact on our environment, particularly our ancient woodlands and trees.

The Significance of Tree Rings

Tree rings serve as natural archives of environmental conditions. Each ring represents a year of growth, with the width of the ring indicating the climatic conditions during that year. Wider rings typically signify wetter, cooler years, while narrower rings indicate dry, hot periods. By studying these rings, scientists can reconstruct past climate conditions and compare them to current trends.

What Ancient Trees Tell Us

The recent findings suggest that the recent summers have been unprecedented in the context of the last two millennia. This alarming trend highlights the urgency of addressing climate change, as these ancient trees have withstood centuries of environmental shifts but are now facing new challenges. Drought stress, heatwaves, and changing weather patterns threaten their survival and the ecosystems they support.

Protecting Ancient Woodlands

Preserving these ancient trees and woodlands is more crucial than ever. They are not only historical treasures but also vital components of the UK's biodiversity. Conservation efforts must prioritize protecting these irreplaceable trees from the effects of climate change. This includes implementing better management practices, reducing carbon emissions, and restoring degraded woodlands to enhance their resilience.

The Urban Tree Challenge Fund – Greening UK Cities for a Healthier Future

The UK government has taken a significant step toward enhancing urban environments with the reopening of the Urban Tree Challenge Fund. This initiative aims to plant 44,000 large trees in towns and cities, focusing on areas with limited green space and higher levels of social deprivation. Trees are not just aesthetic additions to our cities; they play a crucial role in improving air quality, supporting mental health, and combating climate change.

Why Urban Trees Matter

Urban areas often suffer from higher pollution levels, heat islands, and reduced biodiversity. Trees provide shade, reduce temperatures, and absorb pollutants, making cities more livable. Moreover, green spaces have been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and promote physical activity. The Urban Tree Challenge Fund is designed to maximize these benefits, targeting communities where they are needed most.

The Fund's Impact

Administered by the Forestry Commission, the fund offers grants for planting and maintaining trees over three years, ensuring they can thrive and contribute to the urban ecosystem. Local authorities, schools, and community groups have already benefited from previous rounds of funding, planting thousands of trees that will provide long-term benefits. For example, Slough Borough Council has planted over 8,500 trees, enhancing green spaces around schools and healthcare centers.

How to Get Involved

If you're part of a community group, local council, or environmental organization, you can apply for funding through the Urban Tree Challenge Fund. By participating, you contribute to the greening of urban areas, helping to create healthier, more resilient cities for future generations. With the government committed to planting 30,000 hectares of trees annually by 2025, urban tree planting is a vital component of the UK's broader environmental strategy.

BS5837:2012 Surveys – Ensuring Compliance in Planning and Development

When it comes to planning and development, particularly in areas where trees are present, BS5837:2012 surveys are a standard requirement. These surveys assess the impact of proposed construction on nearby trees, ensuring that developments comply with UK regulations aimed at preserving valuable trees and maintaining balance between re-development of your site and the natural world.

BS5837:2012 surveys involve categorising trees based on their condition, life expectancy, and overall value. The results inform planning decisions, helping developers create designs that protect and incorporate existing trees where possible.

For developers, architects, and planners, understanding the role of BS5837:2012 surveys is critical for project success and regulatory compliance. By linking to your detailed explanation of BS5837:2012 Tree Surveys, you can guide readers through the importance of these assessments in the planning process.

Are you looking for a BS5837 survey to support your planning application? Take a look at our services and get in touch to obtain a free estimate today.