When it comes to building developments in the UK, understanding the relationship between trees and construction is paramount. Trees not only add aesthetic value to a site, but they also provide essential ecological benefits, such as improving air quality, supporting wildlife, and reducing the urban heat island effect. However, trees can pose significant challenges when construction projects are being planned or executed. This is where a BS5837 survey comes into play.
BS5837:2012, titled “Trees in relation to design, demolition, and construction – Recommendations,” provides a set of guidelines to help developers and planners manage trees and their associated risks on building sites. Whether you’re embarking on a residential development or a commercial project, carrying out a BS5837 survey is a critical step in ensuring that both your building and the trees on site are properly protected.
Why Are BS5837 Surveys Needed?
1. Tree Protection
One of the primary reasons for conducting a BS5837 survey is to ensure that trees are protected during the construction process. Trees can be vulnerable to damage from construction activity, including root compaction, physical damage to the trunk, and disruption to the soil. The survey helps identify which trees are at risk and outlines measures to safeguard them throughout the development.
2. Legal Compliance
In the UK, trees are often subject to legal protection under local planning policies or conservation area regulations. Failing to carry out a proper survey and risk assessment could result in legal ramifications, such as fines or the requirement to reverse any damage caused to protected trees. By following BS5837, developers can ensure they are compliant with all relevant laws regarding tree protection.
3. Improved Design Integration
A BS5837 survey allows for the integration of trees into the development’s design. The survey provides detailed information about tree positioning, canopy spread, and root protection areas, which can help architects and planners design around the trees in a way that allows for their preservation. A well-integrated development will result in healthier trees and a more pleasant environment for residents or users.
4. Health and Safety Considerations
Tree roots and structures often exist beneath or around the foundations of development sites. A BS5837 survey identifies potential risks associated with existing trees, such as the stability of trees near buildings or roads. Ensuring that trees do not pose safety hazards is an essential part of the development planning process.
5. Long-Term Sustainability
Maintaining tree health is crucial for the long-term success of any development. A BS5837 survey provides recommendations for the long-term care and management of trees during and after construction. This contributes to a sustainable development that benefits both the human occupants and the surrounding environment for many years.
What Should a BS5837 Survey Contain?
A BS5837 survey is a comprehensive report that assesses the trees on a site and provides information to guide the design and construction process. The survey should contain the following key elements:
1. Tree Survey and Assessment
The core component of a BS5837 survey is the detailed survey of all the trees on site. This survey should identify the species, size, age, condition, and health of each tree, and it should record the tree’s location, crown spread, and height. The survey will also assess any visible signs of disease or decay. Trees should be classified according to their quality and retention value, which can range from high-quality trees (Category A) to low-quality trees (Category C). This classification will help guide decisions on which trees should be retained or removed.
2. Root Protection Area (RPA)
The survey will calculate the Root Protection Area (RPA) for each tree. The RPA is a defined area around a tree, typically calculated using the tree’s stem diameter, where construction activity must be limited to prevent damage to the tree’s roots. Understanding and respecting the RPA is critical in preserving tree health during construction.
3. Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
The Tree Constraints Plan is a visual representation of the site, showing the location of all trees, their canopies, and their RPAs. This plan is an essential tool for designers and architects, as it helps them avoid placing structures, paths, or utilities in areas that could harm the trees. The TCP should also highlight any proposed protective fencing or barriers around trees that will be retained during the development.
4. Tree Protection Plan (TPP)
The Tree Protection Plan outlines the physical measures that will be implemented to protect trees during construction. This may include the installation of protective fencing or temporary ground protection, which prevents damage to tree roots and reduces the risk of soil compaction. The TPP should also specify any measures required to safeguard the tree’s canopy and ensure that no construction activity takes place within the RPA.
5. Impact Assessment
An impact assessment evaluates the potential effects of the development on the trees. This part of the survey assesses how construction activities such as excavation, piling, or heavy vehicle movement could affect the trees on site. The survey should provide an analysis of the potential risks and outline any mitigation measures needed to reduce the impact on tree health and stability.
6. Recommendations for Tree Management
The survey will often include recommendations for tree management, particularly for trees that are to be retained after the development. This may include advice on pruning, watering, or monitoring for diseases or pests. If any trees are in poor condition and need to be removed, the survey will recommend the most appropriate course of action and include details of any replacement planting schemes to compensate for the loss of trees.
7. Consideration of Wildlife and Ecological Impact
A BS5837 survey also considers the potential ecological impacts of tree removal or damage. Many trees support wildlife, including birds, bats, and insects. The survey will assess whether any protected species are nesting or roosting in the trees and recommend timing restrictions for tree work to avoid disturbing wildlife, especially during nesting season (typically March to August).
How BS5837 Surveys Benefit Developers
For developers, a BS5837 survey offers several practical benefits:
• Minimises Delays: By identifying potential conflicts between the development and trees early in the planning process, a BS5837 survey helps to prevent costly delays or last-minute changes during construction.
• Cost Savings: By avoiding unnecessary tree damage and ensuring compliance with local regulations, developers can save on fines and costs associated with tree replacement or remediation work.
• Sustainable Design: BS5837 surveys encourage the integration of trees into the development design, which can contribute to sustainability credentials and enhance the overall appeal of the project.
Conclusion
In summary, a BS5837 survey is a vital component of any building development project involving trees. It helps ensure that trees are protected during construction, complies with legal requirements, and allows for the integration of trees into the development design. By conducting a thorough BS5837 survey, developers can avoid potential risks, minimise costs, and contribute to a more sustainable and attractive built environment. Whether you’re planning a small residential project or a large-scale commercial development, ensuring that a proper tree survey is carried out is an essential step in responsible development.