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Tree Surveys and Arboricultural Services.
Trees can shape the design, viability and progress of a development from the outset. Understanding the constraints early helps avoid unnecessary redesign, delays and unexpected costs later.
HCUK Group provides professional tree surveys and arboricultural services for planning applications and development projects across the UK. We work with developers, planners, architects and project teams to identify tree-related risks, explain what they mean for the scheme and provide clear, practical advice to support informed planning decisions.
From an initial tree survey for planning to an arboricultural impact assessment, tree protection plan or arboricultural method statement, we help clients understand the requirements and plan the next steps with confidence.
BS5837:2012 Tree Surveys for Planning and Development
Our tree surveys follow BS5837:2012, the recognised British Standard for assessing trees in relation to design, demolition and construction. This gives the project team reliable information to support the planning and design process.
A tree survey report records the trees and hedgerows within and around the site, including their condition, quality and likely influence on the proposed development.
It may include:
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a tree survey plan
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a tree and hedgerow schedule
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tree categorisation and condition information
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Root Protection Areas
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details of relevant Tree Preservation Orders
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conservation area considerations
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initial advice on tree constraints and development opportunities.
Speak to an Arboricultural Surveyor
Need a tree survey for planning, an arboricultural impact assessment or advice on tree protection?
Arboricultural Impact Assessments
Once a proposed layout has been prepared, we can produce an arboricultural impact assessment to explain how the development may affect existing trees and hedgerows. The assessment considers the likely effects of demolition, construction, access, changes in ground levels, new buildings and associated infrastructure. It identifies which trees can be retained, where mitigation may be needed and where design changes may be needed. Rather than simply list constraints, we explain their significance, provide proportionate recommendations and work with the wider project team to find practical solutions.
Supporting information may include:
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Tree Retention and Removal Plans
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updated tree schedules
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Root Protection Area information
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replacement planting recommendations
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tree protection and mitigation measures.
Tree Protection Plans
Our tree protection plans set out the measures needed to protect retained trees during demolition and construction.
These may include protective fencing, ground protection, construction exclusion zones and controls on working methods. The plan gives contractors, project managers and the Local Planning Authority a clear understanding of how works should proceed around retained trees.
Arboricultural Method Statements
Where works are proposed close to retained trees, we prepare arboricultural method statements setting out how they should be carried out without causing unacceptable harm.
They may cover:
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demolition or excavation near Root Protection Areas
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installation of hard surfaces or services
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specialist foundations
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tree protection monitoring
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changes to protective fencing.
This gives the project team a clear sequence of work and helps demonstrate that tree protection has been considered from planning through to construction.
Tree Condition Surveys and Inspections
We provide tree condition surveys and tree inspections to assess the health, structural condition and management needs of individual trees or groups of trees.
Our advice identifies visible defects, potential risks and any recommended management actions. Where further investigation is needed, we explain what is required and why. This service supports landowners, estate managers, developers and project teams who need clear, balanced advice on the condition and future management of trees.
Tree Preservation Orders and Conservation Areas
Trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order or located within a conservation area are subject to additional planning controls.
As part of our wider arboricultural services, we review the relevant designations, explain how they may affect your proposals and advise on the most appropriate next steps. This may include supporting applications for works to protected trees or ensuring these constraints are properly addressed as part of a planning application.
Why Work With HCUK Group?
Our experienced team includes professionals with TechArborA arboricultural and DipLA CMLI landscape credentials, combining specialist tree knowledge with a wider understanding of site design and the planning process.
Clients choose HCUK for:
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clear advice on risks, constraints and opportunities
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practical input during layout development
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proportionate recommendations tailored to the project
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close collaboration with planners, architects and other consultants
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support from early feasibility through to construction.
As part of HCUK Group, our arboriculture team can also work alongside colleagues in landscape, ecology, archaeology and heritage. This joined-up approach helps clients understand how different site constraints interact and make better-informed decisions across the project.
Recent Arboricultural Projects
Explore examples of how our arboricultural surveyors have helped clients understand tree constraints and support development proposals across a range of sites and sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do trees outside the site boundary need to be included?
Yes, where their canopies or Root Protection Areas could influence the proposed development.
Can you advise before a site layout is prepared?
Yes. Early arboricultural input can help identify where trees may influence developable areas and access.
Will the presence of trees prevent development?
Not necessarily. The key issue is understanding which trees are important and how the layout can respond to them.
What do you need to provide a quotation?
Usually a site plan, location details and a brief summary of the proposed works or development stage.
Can you support a project before land purchase or submission?
Yes. Early advice can help developers and landowners understand potential tree-related constraints before committing further time and cost.