In the urban environment, trees act as a natural visual and sound barrier and can even increase the value of a property while reducing energy costs by providing natural shading and cooling. Spending time in and around trees is considered to reduce stress and improve mental health, as well as providing opportunities for physical activity.
So, trees are beneficial – but they can live for hundreds of years and, as such, can sometimes be seen to be “in the way”. A tree planted too close to a boundary or property might be overhanging, potentially causing issues with buildings or neighbouring gardens by blocking light or even undermining buildings and causing subsidence.
There is much to consider before you decide to do away with it, whether to accommodate a building project or for any other reason. We look at the rules and discuss the benefits of trees.
The rules
If you own the tree and it isn’t protected, you don’t usually need permission or a permit to remove it, but certain rules still apply. If the tree is on your land, you probably own it.
However, a tree in a conservation area is likely to be protected and you should apply for permission before felling it. Even a self-sown ‘weed’ tree can be protected simply because of its location. Your local planning authority can grant permission to fell a tree but if permission isn’t granted, a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) may be placed on the tree to afford it additional protection.
A planning authority will have considered any TPOs when granting planning permission which requires a tree to be felled, so a granted planning permission effectively overrides a TPO.
To be on the safe side, ask your local authority whether there is a TPO on the tree. If it is subject to a TPO, there are limited circumstances under which it can be removed. A criminal conviction for removing or damaging a tree with a TPO can lead to a fine of £20,000 in the Magistrates Court or an unlimited fine in the Crown Court.
You also cannot fell a tree during bird nesting season and there are rules around some particular tree species, which are essential to maintaining wildlife.
Should you get a tree survey?
If you are considering buying a property with trees you might consider a tree survey before you buy. In the same way that a house survey gives you informed advice about a house purchase, a tree survey can forewarn you of your rights and responsibilities towards any trees when you take on the property. This is particularly advisable if you plan to build on the land or extend an existing property.
Of particular note is the requirement to replace a tree which has a TPO if it has died. The replacement tree must be of the same type and in the same location and will automatically receive the same TPO protection.
Doing it yourself?
Felling a tree is dangerous – not only to your person but there is also a risk of damaging property or the surrounding environment. Removing a large tree near a property can cause serious problems with the foundations. If the heave is not accounted for, it could cause the foundations of the property to be displaced or for cracks and separation to occur. Read more about heave and subsidence.
A professional will consider all aspects of safety and the law, and make sure you don’t cause a bigger problem.
The benefit of trees
Whatever the reasons for doing so, you should never cut down a tree without considerable forethought and planning. Trees provide habitat and food for many animals, birds, insects and more, promoting diversity in nature. They play a vital role and newly planted trees cannot simply replace an older, established tree – whatever property developers say.
One tree is capable of absorbing 22kg of CO2 each year, and produces sufficient oxygen to sustain two people. Some of the sun’s UV radiation is absorbed and reflected by trees, which helps to cool the environment while also providing valuable shade. It is estimated that one single tree is as effective as ten air conditioners. Dust and pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide, are absorbed by trees which significantly improves air quality.
The roots of trees run deep, and have the benefit of stabilising ground conditions and preventing soil erosion. The roots increase the water retention capacity of the soil by improving its structure. The decomposition of leaves promotes soil fertility and the growth of other plants. In addition, in exchange for nutrients, trees produce sugar that feeds the mycelium, which promotes soil life and supports the ecosystem.
Trees contribute to cloud formation through evaporation and have a positive influence on the local microclimate and precipitation.
So why are trees beneficial? Not only do they reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere, they provide oxygen, water and a healthy ecosystem. They are an indispensable natural technology – so plant more trees!