BS5837 Tree Surveys for Planning Applications in Cumbria

What is a BS5837 Tree Survey?

A BS5837 tree survey records the condition, quality and constraints of trees on or adjacent to a development site. The information gathered during the survey helps inform the design of buildings, access routes and service runs so that suitable trees can be retained where possible.

This process ensures that trees and development proposals can coexist successfully while satisfying the requirements of the local planning authority.

What Does a BS5837 Survey and Report Include?

BS5837 work is commonly completed in two stages, depending on how far the development proposals have progressed.

Stage 1 – Tree Survey and Constraints

The initial survey records the species, dimensions, condition and quality of trees on or adjacent to the site. A Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) shows their positions, crown spreads, Root Protection Areas and other relevant constraints. This information should ideally be obtained early so it can inform the design of buildings, access routes and services.

Stage 2 – Impact Assessment and Tree Protection

Once a proposed layout has been developed, an Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) considers how the development may affect existing trees. Where required, an Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) and Tree Protection Plan (TPP) then explain how retained trees will be protected during construction.

Not every project requires every document. The appropriate scope will depend on the development proposals, the trees present and the requirements of the local planning authority.

Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)

A Tree Constraints Plan (TCP) is prepared using the information collected during a BS5837 tree survey. The plan shows the position of existing trees, their canopy spread and their Root Protection Areas (RPA).

This information identifies the areas of a site where development may be restricted due to the presence of trees. The Tree Constraints Plan is used by architects and designers during the early stages of a project to help position buildings, access routes and services while retaining important trees.

Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA)

An Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) evaluates how a proposed development may affect existing trees on a site.

Using the data collected during the BS5837 tree survey, the assessment considers potential impacts such as tree removal, changes to ground levels, construction within root protection areas and potential damage during development.

The Arboricultural Impact Assessment forms part of the planning submission and demonstrates how suitable trees will be retained and managed as part of the development.

Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS)

An Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) sets out the construction methods that will be used when building near trees.

It explains how works such as excavation, surfacing, drainage installation and foundation construction will be carried out in a way that protects tree roots and avoids damage to retained trees.

The Arboricultural Method Statement is typically required where development takes place within or close to Root Protection Areas identified during a BS5837 tree survey.

Why Choose Evolve for BS5837 Surveys?

Evolve Tree Management provides independent BS5837 advice for homeowners, architects, planning consultants and developers. Surveys and reports are prepared by Josh Ledbury, a qualified arboricultural consultant with the Technician’s Certificate in Arboriculture and more than 15 years of practical experience.

Experience includes preparing Tree Constraints Plans, Arboricultural Impact Assessments, Arboricultural Method Statements and Tree Protection Plans for projects ranging from individual dwellings to larger development sites.

• Direct advice from the consultant undertaking your survey

• Clear reports suitable for planning submissions

• Practical and proportionate recommendations

• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance

“Josh at Evolve Tree Management carried out an arboricultural survey for us, including guidance relating to a protected tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order. He was punctual, approachable and professional throughout, and the report was delivered promptly. The survey was thorough and helped support a successful planning approval. Highly recommended.”

Tree Protection Plan (TPP)

A Tree Protection Plan (TPP) shows the protective measures that must be installed on site before construction begins.

This plan identifies the location of protective fencing, ground protection and construction exclusion zones designed to safeguard retained trees during development.

The Tree Protection Plan ensures that the recommendations of the BS5837 tree survey and Arboricultural Method Statement are implemented on site.