Trees are a material consideration in the United Kingdom planning system and are to be considered be them on or near the proposed development area.  Tree root systems, stems and canopies need to be taken into account in all projects including those that do not require planning permission. After possibly decades of growth and establishment trees could be damaged irreparably in just a few minutes by actions that might be negligent or wilful.  The early provision of physical protection from damage how so ever caused is essential. British Standard 5837:2012, Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction - Recommendations is the industry standard to be applied when considering proposed developments.

Tree owners have a common law duty of care to: “Take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which they can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure their neighbour” Under the Occupiers Liability Act, the tree owner also has duty to take all reasonable steps to ensure visitors or trespassers on their land are safe. In relation to trees this means that should a tree cause damage to people or property the owner of the tree may be liable. If you are a tree owner or manager it is prudent and recommended to have the trees regularly inspected by a trained and competent Arborist.  Cumbria Tree Surveys routinely undertake this service for a range of clients providing detailed reports with recommendations and mitigation measures in accordance with British Standard 3998 : 2010 Tree Work  - Recommendations.

Ash Dieback has now taken hold throughout the north west. For specialist advice and assessment and to ensure legal compliance with regard to Felling Licence applications and tree removal, contact Cumbria Tree Surveys.

If you are the owner or manager of trees or woodlands of any size and require help and advice on tree and woodland management including succession planting for future generations then Cumbria Tree Surveys also offer surveys and reports in this area.

Cumbria Tree Surveys are able to offer the complete package to legally comply with the regulations as specified in the Forestry Act of 1967. A Felling Licence issued by the Forestry Commission is likely to be required if tree felling requires the removal of more than 5 cubic metres of timber in a calendar quarter. From site survey to Felling Licence completion and submission, Cumbria Tree Surveys can do it all.

Cumbria Tree Surveys are able to offer complete Project Management covering all aspects of Arboricultural work including assessment of contractors, health and safety management, method statement and risk assessment verification and on site audits of work in progress and completed.

Competent Person for Thorough Examination of Work at Height Personal Protective Equipment.

Daniel Bold has a strong background in Health and Safety, being qualified to N.E.B.O.S.H General Certificate level with experience in the utility sector and construction. He also formulates and manages the Health and Safety system for Tree Surgery companies that includes undertaking Risk Assessments and Method Statements and formulating Health and Safety systems and processes.

This specialist area covers trees in relation to overhead electricity lines with Cumbria Tree Surveys offering the Overhead Line Utility Surveyor service.  Qualified to National Proficiency Test Council (N.P.T.C.) Unit 5 surveyor.

Tree Preservation Orders are administered by the Local Planning Authority and are made to protect trees that offer significant amenity value. The Tree Preservation Order makes it a criminal offence to cause or permit such actions as to cut down, top, lop, uproot wilfully damage or destroy a protected tree. Prior to undertaking any works on trees subject to a Tree Preservation Order or works within the Root Protection Area, Local Authority consent is required.  Cumbria Tree Surveys are able to ease the burden of the application process so as to avoid any criminal offence being committed.