Believe it or not, garden maintenance and outdoor management are more challenging than you might think. Not only does the role of a tree surgeon in Essex involve working at height and with often complex and dangerous machinery, but it also means working within the realms of various regulations.
One of the most important regulations to understand in the UK is the power of a TPO: a Tree Protection Order. This order can be handed out by local planning authorities and is a way of protecting trees from being damaged or removed, either as a result of outdoor maintenance work or through development and building plans.
The power of a TPO can literally halt local work in its tracks. So, what kind of trees are protected under this order, and how do tree surgeons work around TPOs to keep outside spaces looking their best?
Which Trees Are Affected by TPOs?
A TPO can be assigned to protect anything from a single tree to a small group of trees or an entire woodland. The reasons for awarding a TPO vary but can include details such as the age and historic value of the tree, its location and the way it supports other species, and its role in local biodiversity.
It all depends on the importance of the tree both within its surrounding environment and with regards to its history. Residents can recommend any tree to be placed under a TPO, with the local authority then required to approve the TPO or deny it.
Carrying Out Work Around a TPO
Of course, TPO or not there are still areas of tree maintenance, structural management, and groundwork that need to be carried out across outside spaces – both public and private.
In most cases, an application will need to be submitted should you want or need to carry out work on a protected tree. This ensures that the local planning authority has full visibility on the status of the tree and can mitigate the risk of any damage (both above and below ground).
The Role of an Experienced Tree Surgeon
With all that in mind, then, what does a tree surgeon do?
Well, not only can an experienced tree surgeon safely carry out any and all work to maintain the health of a tree, but they can also submit applications to work on protected trees and ensure that all maintenance is carried out while respecting the regulations of a TPO.
With experience in navigating TPOs, clients need simply contact a local tree surgeon and let the team do the rest, taking on the role of reaching out to the local planning authority and ensuring work is carried out sensitively and safely.
For more information on this service and to enhance the health of your outside space with the help of tree surgeons, get in touch with your local team today.
