Last updated: November 2024
Author: Rob Lambert
Editor at Arbtech, Rob is a content specialist who manages our ecology and arboriculture services copy to ensure it is accurate, up to date, and insightful for current and future clients.
Correlation Between Trees and Planning
Located in the picturesque Ribble Valley in North West England, Clitheroe is a charming market town known for its historic landmarks, stunning countryside and vibrant community. While the majority of Clitheroe’s population enjoys the natural beauty of the surrounding rural areas, the town itself is a hub for visitors exploring attractions like Clitheroe Castle, Brungerley Park and Pendle Hill.
In recent years, Clitheroe has become increasingly aware of the importance of preserving its natural environment. Although Clitheroe boasts significant tree canopy cover, any development projects in the area must consider the presence of trees, particularly those that are valuable, rare or protected. The local council places strict regulations on tree preservation, which can complicate planning applications if trees are present on the site.
To navigate these challenges and ensure compliance with local regulations, developers in Clitheroe should arrange for an arboriculturist to conduct a tree survey on their development site. Tree surveys are an essential step that helps to identify any potential issues related to tree protection and ensure that the project can move forward smoothly.
Features Designed to Protect Trees
As with much of the Ribble Valley, Clitheroe is governed by the Ribble Valley Borough Council, which oversees the conservation and protection of the area’s natural assets. The council has designated several conservation areas within Clitheroe where tree preservation is a priority. Numerous trees in the town and its surroundings are also protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).
Information about conservation areas and TPOs in Clitheroe can be found on the Ribble Valley Borough Council’s website, providing developers with the necessary guidelines on urban design, tree preservation and other conservation policies including those related to listed buildings and historic sites.
Suitable Tree Services
To meet the requirements of the Ribble Valley Borough Council and other relevant local authorities in North West England, an arboriculturist typically conducts a BS5837 tree survey. During tree surveys of this category, the consultant conducting the tree services will carry out a visual inspection of all trees on the development site to assess their quality, value and condition. Each tree is then assigned a grade based on a predetermined system, which helps decide whether the tree should be retained, relocated or removed.
Following the tree assessment, the arboriculturist will produce a detailed tree report. Including the survey findings and recommended mitigation measures, the report can be submitted to the local planning authority as part of the application for planning permission. The tree report is a critical component of the planning process, supplying the council with reliable information to guide their decision-making.
Instruct Our Team to Undertake Tree Surveys
Choosing a reputable arboricultural consultancy is crucial for obtaining a quality tree survey and report. By selecting a service provider with experienced and qualified arboricultural consultants, you can ensure that the tree survey meets the high standards required by the local council and supports your planning application effectively.
Arbtech has been offering tree surveys and other tree services for over a decade, and our arboricultural consultants are well-equipped to handle assessments on development sites in Clitheroe and the surrounding area of Ribble Valley to bolster planning applications. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional service, and our arboriculturists are strategically located throughout the country to ensure comprehensive coverage.
If you need tree surveys for your Clitheroe or wider Ribble Valley project, simply contact us for a free quote. Provide us with the details of your site and project, and we will send a quote for your consideration. Once you’re ready, return the form, and we will schedule a convenient time to visit your site, conduct the tree survey, and assist you in obtaining planning permission.