Arboricultural Surveys in Surrey
- Protecting Trees Whilst Advancing Planning & Construction

Development Compliance with a BS5837 Survey

A BS5837 arboricultural survey is an essential first step in keeping your development on track while protecting valuable trees. Its purpose is to balance the requirements of the project with the preservation of trees, which hold aesthetic, environmental and ecological importance. The survey offers detailed information on the species, size, age, condition and value of trees on or near your site. Our team also evaluates the structural stability of each tree, identifying any signs of disease, pests or decay. We record the root protection area too, which is the space around a tree’s roots that must remain undisturbed during construction. This knowledge enables you to make informed choices that safeguard important assets while allowing your development to progress smoothly.

What does a tree survey look like?

An arboricultural survey is the first step in understanding how trees on or near a site may affect a development. It records key details such as species, size, condition, age and life expectancy, and categorises each tree by quality and value. A Tree Constraints Plan then maps these findings, highlighting any design limitations and setting out recommendations for tree protection, pruning or removal, along with strategies to reduce impacts during construction. It classifies trees into categories (A, B, C, U) based on their quality and value, and calculates the Root Protection Areas (RPAs) to help guide development design.

What happens after a tree survey?

Once the survey is completed, we produce a detailed report for submission to the local planning authority. This includes a Tree Constraints Plan (TCP), Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) highlighting root protection areas, and precise AutoCAD plans of the site. These documents ensure the development considers tree preservation and complies with planning regulations.

For many larger developments, a Tree Protection Plan (TPP) is often required. The TPP sets out specific measures to protect trees throughout the construction process. These may include establishing exclusion zones around trees, implementing root protection strategies, and using specialised construction techniques to avoid damage. The TPP is a vital part of the planning application, as it demonstrates that the developer has taken the necessary steps to protect the trees during the development.

In some cases, tree management doesn’t end with the submission of the survey. Ongoing monitoring and management of the trees may be required during and after construction. This could involve post-development monitoring to assess tree health maintaining tree protection measures, and replacing trees if they were removed or damaged during construction. Our qualified arboricultural consultant assist with these ongoing tasks, ensuring that the trees are properly managed long after the development is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

About PJC Consultancy

With offices in Kent and Sussex, we provide services across these regions and the wider South East of England. Our local presence allows us to deliver tailored solutions efficiently, ensuring compliance with regional planning regulations and meeting the unique needs of your site. At PJC Consultancy, we conduct tree surveys for a variety of clients, including planners, developers, and architects. Additionally, we work with residents who require a tree assessment for reasons such as safety, health, or compliance with local regulations. Our team provides professional advice and detailed reports to help ensure the best management and protection of trees throughout projects.