Tree Surveys in Somerset: Support with On-Site Trees

Somerset’s Many Green Spaces and Trees

Home to diverse landscapes from the Mendip Hills to the Somerset Levels, Somerset boasts a rich variety of green spaces that contribute significantly to the county’s character. From the historic Glastonbury Tor and its surrounding countryside to the expansive Exmoor National Park, these areas are integral to Somerset’s identity, with Exmoor in particular being known for its ancient woodlands and unique wildlife.

Across Somerset, numerous parks, nature reserves and public spaces offer residents and visitors opportunities to connect with nature. Each area supports a diverse range of trees, contributing to the county’s biodiversity. Somerset County Council and other local authorities are committed to protecting and enhancing these green spaces, with various initiatives focusing on tree planting, woodland management and general ongoing tree care as part of broader environmental strategies.

While these efforts benefit the local environment, the protection of trees in relation to design, demolition or building developments can present potential risks to developers. Increased tree cover can influence development projects, making it pivotal for developers to commission thorough tree surveys conducted by qualified arboriculturists to comply with local regulations and ensure that their projects proceed without environmental or legal complications.

Understanding Tree Protection Measures in Somerset

Trees and other assets in Somerset are considered valuable by local authorities and may be protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or located within conservation areas. TPOs protect individual trees or groups of trees, while conservation areas protect all trees within a designated area. Both require prior consent for any work that might affect them, typically requested from the relevant local council in Somerset or other parts of South West England.

Local councils in Somerset have the authority to implement TPOs and designate areas for conservation to preserve the county’s natural heritage. Information about TPO-protected trees and conservation areas can usually be found on the respective council websites. Resources are available from organisations such as the Forestry Commission and the Arboricultural Association for information regarding tree health, diseases and best practices for developers and tree owners.

Tree Assessments for Domestic and Commercial Clients

For developers working in Somerset, a BS5837 tree survey is essential for supporting planning applications submitted to the local planning authority. One of our arboricultural consultants will attend the site to assess the state and importance of all trees present. The British standard tree survey process involves recording various data including tree dimensions, health and structural condition, and considering factors such as their landscape value and potential impact on the development.

Based on the survey data, trees near the site will be categorised to inform decisions about retention, relocation or removal. Retaining existing trees is generally preferred, especially for healthy, mature or ecologically valuable specimens. If trees obstruct the development plans and cannot be retained, tree works that involve relocation might be considered. In some cases, removal and compensatory planting may be necessary as an absolute last resort.

Before submitting a planning application, developers require a detailed tree report prepared by a qualified arboricultural consultant. The report will include all findings from the tree survey, recommendations for mitigating potential impacts on trees, and an assessment of tree-related risks. In some cases, further surveys such as an Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS), Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA), tree condition surveys or a tree protection plan (TPP) may be required.

Talk With Our Tree Consultancy About Our Services

Particularly in rural landscapes, historic towns and private land, developers in the Somerset area can find problems with native trees. At Arbtech, we offer nationwide coverage, ensuring access to experienced local arboriculturists who can provide tree surveys and provide impartial advice. Our team has local knowledge of Somerset, enabling us to offer practical and relevant solutions through detailed arboricultural reports and references to relevant organisations such as the Arboricultural Association.

Our trained, licensed and qualified arboricultural surveyors are skilled in conducting various assessments, including BS5837 tree surveys to address tree-related issues within the planning process. Contact us via email, online or by phone for a free quote. Assuming you’re happy with the quote, we can schedule a site visit to conduct the tree survey and help address any tree-related obstacles in connection with tree health, tree care or tree works to obtain planning permission.