Protected Trees

If you need to get approval to undertake works to trees on your land protected by Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or in a Conservation Area we can provide advice and guide you through the process.

Protected Tree Surveys and applications

from £240

Free no obligation quotation

Frequently Asked Questions

What work can I carry out to a protected tree ?

When a tree or trees is covered by a Tree Preservation Order it does not entirely prevent works being undertaken but in most cases you will need to make a written application to you Local Planning Authority and get written consent before undertaking tree work.

We can survey your trees and advise what works are required, specify the works and submit the application for you.

My TPO application has been refused can I appeal ?

If you have made an application to your local Authority for works to a tree and it has been refused you may have a right of appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. An appeal may take several months process and for you to get a decision so it is important that you provide the right information to ensure that your case gets a fair hearing.

We can review your TPO application and the decision and advise you on whether an appeal is the best course of action. If it is we can guide you through this process and submit an appeal for you.

A TPO has been made on my trees can I have it removed ?

If a TPO has recently been served on trees that you own or manage you do have a right to object to the TPO. There are time limits on submitting an objection, normally 28 days, therefore it is important that you act quickly. We can review any TPO that has been issued and advise you whether you have any valid objections and the implications this will have for the management of your trees.

If the TPO has been made and confirmed it may be possible in some cases, where there is justification, to request that the order is revoked. Often however it is a matter of finding the best way to manage trees within the constraints of the TPO

Why use Peak Tree Consultancy ?

Clients tell us that it is becoming increasingly difficult to get pre- application advice from Local Authorities or to speak directly to officers dealing with TPO applications. Monica Gillespie Peak Tree Consultancy's owner and principal consultant has many years experience as a Tree Officer for Local Authorities and a consultant dealing with TPO applications and appeals. She is able to advise on what is required so ensure that your application or appeal has the best chance of success. This will could ultimately save you time and money due to decisions being rejected, delayed or refused

What’s involved?
The TPO application process can be broadly divided into 4 Stages

Tree survey

Site visit

We will visit the site and survey the tree(s) assess their condition and amenity.

We will provide you with details of the survey, a plan & report with tree works recommendations specified.

Application

Planning Portal Application

We will submit a digital application to the Local Authority via the Planning Portal and liaise with the Local Authority as required. A TPO application should be determined within 8 weeks and a Conservation Area Notification has a 6 week time limit

Decision

Decision and conditions

When a decision is made the Local Authority will issue a letter either giving consent usually with conditions or refusing the application. If the application is refused we can advise you the next steps and if necessary making an Appeal.

Implementaion

Tree works and planting

Where consent is granted there may be conditions in relation to how the work is undertaken or whether replacement planting is required. All TPO decisions have a time limit.

What will it cost ?

The cost to provide a tree survey, advice, report and TPO application submission start at £240. Our quotes are tailored to the specifics of each case and cost will depend on the number of trees and the complexity of the issues.

The cost for appeals, TPO objections and other advice will depend on the complexity of the case.