Essential Work for Your Development Project

When planning a new development, one crucial aspect that must not be overlooked is the arboricultural impact assessment. But what is it, and why is it so important?

This article will provide a complete guide on arboricultural impact assessments, covering everything you need to know about this essential service.

What is an Arboricultural Impact Assessment?

An arboricultural impact assessment (AIA) is a detailed evaluation of the trees on or near a proposed development site. It assesses the potential impact of the development on these trees and suggests measures to mitigate any adverse effects.

The AIA includes several components such as tree surveys, tree constraint plans, and tree protection plans. 

When is an Arboricultural Impact Assessment Required?

An arboricultural impact assessment is required whenever there is a proposed development near trees. This could be for residential, commercial, or public projects.

Local planning authorities often mandate an AIA to ensure that trees are not adversely affected by construction activities.

Essentially, if your planning application involves building near trees, you will need an arboricultural impact assessment.

Key Components of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment

• Tree Survey: This involves a detailed inventory of the trees on the site, assessing their species, size, age, health, and life expectancy. Understanding the tree root system is crucial in this survey.
• Tree Constraint Plans: These plans identify the constraints posed by existing trees, including their root protection areas and crown spread.
• Tree Protection Plans: These plans outline the measures needed to protect the trees during the construction process. They ensure that the retained trees and their rooting area are safeguarded.
• Arboricultural Method Statement: This document provides detailed instructions on how to carry out construction activities without harming the trees. It includes specific protection measures to be followed by contractors.

The Importance of an Arboricultural Impact Assessment

An AIA is crucial for several reasons:

• Compliance with Regulations: It ensures your project complies with local planning authority requirements and British Standard BS 5837.
• Protection of Trees: It helps in the preservation of trees by recommending appropriate protection measures.
• Preventing Potential Issues: By identifying potential impacts early, it helps prevent costly problems related to tree damage or loss.
• Sustainable Development: It promotes sustainable development by balancing construction needs with environmental conservation.

The Process of Conducting an Arboricultural Impact Assessment

The AIA process typically involves several steps:

1. Initial Site Visit: Arboricultural consultants visit the site to carry out a preliminary tree survey and assess the potential impact of the proposed development.
2. Detailed Tree Survey: A comprehensive tree survey is conducted, collecting data on each tree’s condition, size, species, and root protection areas.
3. Preparation of Plans and Reports: Based on the survey data, tree constraint plans, tree protection plans, and the arboricultural method statement are prepared.
4. Submission to Planning Authority: The AIA report, along with other required documents, is submitted to the local planning authority as part of the planning application.

Mitigation for Tree Removal and Preservation

In some cases, tree removal may be unavoidable. However, mitigation strategies should be in place to compensate for this loss. This might include planting new trees, enhancing existing green spaces, or contributing to tree preservation orders.

Conclusion

An arboricultural impact assessment is an indispensable part of any development project near trees. It ensures that trees are preserved and protected, complying with local planning authority requirements and British standards.

At Arbor Cultural, we specialise in conducting thorough and reliable arboricultural impact assessments. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing sustainable tree management services that can help you value the wealth, health, and wellbeing of your trees.If you are planning a development and need a comprehensive arboricultural impact assessment, contact Arbor Cultural today on 020 4531 6444, or via email at admin@arbor-cultural.co.uk.