Do I need a tree survey for my planning application?

If you're planning to develop a site in the UK that contains trees or woodland, it's important to understand when a BS5837:2012 tree survey is needed. This standard, which was first published in 2005 and updated in 2012, outlines the guidelines for assessing trees and woodlands in relation to construction and development projects.

Here are some situations when a BS5837:2012 tree survey is typically required:

1. Planning applications: If you're submitting a planning application for a development project, you'll need to provide a tree survey as part of your application. This is to ensure that any proposed development will not adversely affect the trees on the site or surrounding areas.

2. Site appraisals: A BS5837:2012 tree survey may also be required as part of a site appraisal or feasibility study. This will help to identify any constraints that may affect the development of the site, such as the presence of protected or valuable trees.

3. Pre-purchase assessments: If you're considering purchasing a site that contains trees or woodland, a tree survey may be necessary to assess the condition and value of the trees. This will help you to make an informed decision about the potential of the site and any costs associated with managing the trees.

In summary, a BS5837:2012 tree survey is needed in situations where there are trees or woodland present on a site that is undergoing development or construction. It's important to engage a qualified tree consultant to conduct the survey and provide expert advice on the best course of action to take to protect the trees and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Considering Pollarding your trees? first know its meaning.

Pollarding is a tree management technique that has been used for centuries to promote the growth of new shoots and to maintain the size of trees. It involves the regular pruning of the upper branches of a tree back to the trunk, creating a distinctive "knuckle" at the top of the tree.

One of the primary benefits of pollarding is that it can help to extend the life of a tree. By limiting the size of the tree and promoting the growth of new shoots, pollarding can prevent the tree from becoming too heavy and causing damage to its structure. This is particularly important in urban areas, where large trees can pose a risk to nearby buildings and infrastructure.

Pollarding can also be used to control the growth of trees in areas with limited space, such as along roads or in small gardens. By regularly pruning the upper branches of the tree, it is possible to maintain its size and shape while still allowing it to grow.

Another benefit of pollarding is that it can help to increase the aesthetic appeal of a tree. The knuckles that are formed at the top of the tree can create a unique and striking silhouette, making the tree an attractive feature in any landscape.

Despite its benefits, pollarding is not suitable for all types of trees. It is generally only recommended for fast-growing species such as willows, poplars, and certain types of oak. Additionally, pollarding requires regular maintenance and pruning, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Overall, pollarding is a valuable tool in the management of trees in urban and suburban environments. By promoting the growth of new shoots and limiting the size of the tree, it can help to extend its lifespan, control its growth, and enhance its aesthetic appeal. If you are considering pollarding for your trees, be sure to consult with a qualified arborist to determine if it is a suitable technique for your specific species of tree.

While pollarding is a useful technique for managing the growth of certain species of trees, it is important to note that it should not be confused with topping, which is a practice that involves removing large branches or even the tops of mature trees. Topping is a poor management practice that can severely damage trees and reduce their lifespan.

Unlike topping, pollarding is a more selective form of pruning that involves removing only the upper branches of the tree. By leaving the lower branches intact, the tree is able to continue photosynthesizing and producing food for itself, which is essential for its overall health and longevity.

In contrast, topping can cause a significant amount of stress to the tree and can even lead to its death. When large branches or the top of a tree are removed, it can disrupt the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients to its leaves and can also expose the tree to diseases and pests.

Furthermore, topping often results in the rapid growth of new shoots that are poorly attached to the tree and are more susceptible to breaking off during wind or storm events. This can create a hazard for nearby buildings, people, and other property.

Overall, it is important to understand the differences between pollarding and topping when managing the growth of trees. While pollarding can be a useful tool in promoting new growth and extending the lifespan of certain species of trees, topping should be avoided at all costs as it can cause severe damage and reduce the health and longevity of trees. Consulting with a qualified arborist is recommended to determine the best management practices for your specific trees.

We run a paperless office

As a small company, we are always looking for ways to reduce our environmental impact and increase efficiency. One way we have achieved both of these goals is by running a paperless office.

Going paperless has many benefits, including reducing waste and saving money on supplies and storage. It also allows us to access and share documents more easily and securely, as everything is stored digitally.

Here are some of the ways we have implemented a paperless system in our office:

1. Electronic Documents: We use electronic documents for everything, from proposals and invoices to contracts and agreements. By using digital signatures and electronic filing, we have eliminated the need for printing and mailing hard copies.

2. Cloud Storage: We use cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox to store all our files securely online. This allows us to access our documents from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easier to work remotely or collaborate with clients and partners.

3. Scanning: For any paper documents we do receive, we scan them and save them digitally. This reduces the need for physical storage and makes it easier to search and share documents with others.

4. Digital Communication: We communicate with clients, vendors, and partners primarily through email and instant messaging. This allows us to share documents and collaborate in real-time without the need for physical meetings or printed materials.

5. Virtual Meetings: We conduct most of our meetings virtually through video conferencing software like Zoom or Skype. This reduces the need for physical travel and printed materials like agendas and presentations.

Running a paperless office has not only reduced our environmental impact, but it has also made our business more efficient and streamlined. By eliminating the need for physical storage and reducing printing and mailing costs, we have been able to save time and money. It has also made it easier to work remotely and collaborate with others, which is more important than ever in today's digital age.

As a small company, we are proud to be doing our part to reduce waste and protect the environment while also improving our business practices. Going paperless may seem daunting, but with the right tools and mindset, it is a manageable and worthwhile goal for any organization.