BS5837 Surveys: Integrating Trees into Your Development Plans
At Down to Earth Trees Ltd, we specialise in conducting comprehensive BS 5837:2012 surveys, ensuring your development projects seamlessly integrate existing trees while adhering to British Standard 5837:2012—‘Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction—Recommendations.’
The Importance of Trees in Development
Trees significantly enhance the built environment, offering visual appeal, shade, noise reduction, and essential ecological benefits. Research shows that their presence can increase property values by 5% to 18% (CABE Space, 2005; Morales et al., 1983). Tools such as i-Tree also quantify the ecosystem services trees provide annually, from carbon sequestration to improved air quality. Recognising these advantages, local planning authorities prioritise tree preservation, making them a cornerstone of the UK planning system.
understanding BS 5837:2012
BS 5837:2012 provides clear guidance for assessing, protecting, and incorporating trees into development plans. Following these recommendations ensures that developments respect existing trees, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
At Down to Earth Trees Ltd, we guide homeowners and developers through this process, combining our arboricultural expertise with advanced tools such as AutoCAD© to deliver high-quality plans and reports tailored to meet the needs of architects, planners, and local authorities.
Our Three-Stage BS5837 Survey Process
We provide a structured approach to support your development from start to finish, with each stage designed to simplify planning, ensure compliance, and facilitate the sustainable integration of trees.
Stage 1: Tree Constraints Report (TCR) – Pre-Application Stage
Site Assessment & Survey
We undertake a detailed on-site tree survey to record the species, dimensions, condition, life expectancy, and retention value of each tree. This baseline data is essential for understanding how existing trees may influence site layout and early design.
Tree Constraints Report (TCR)
This early-stage report identifies key tree-related constraints, supporting pre-application design development by flagging which trees should be retained and where flexibility exists.
Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
A scaled CAD-based plan illustrating tree locations and Root Protection Areas (RPAs). The TCP informs layout design and highlights areas to be safeguarded, ensuring integration of tree constraints into initial site feasibility.
Stage 2: Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) – Planning Application Submission
Impact Evaluation
We assess how the proposed development interacts with existing trees, identifying where trees may be removed or impacted, and analysing how construction may affect retained trees.
Mitigation & Justification
Clear, professional advice is provided to address potential conflicts, proposing design modifications or mitigation strategies where appropriate. This ensures your application demonstrates a balanced approach to development and tree retention.
Supporting Documentation
The AIA is a key planning document, providing the Local Planning Authority with a reasoned assessment of tree impacts and proposed responses. It builds upon the TCR and forms a critical part of your formal submission.
Stage 3: Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) Post-Approval / Pre-Commencement
Arboricultural Method Statement
Once permission is granted, we prepare a detailed, site-specific AMS. This sets out working methods to protect retained trees throughout the construction phase, including access logistics, service routing, storage zones, and ground protection.
Tree Protection Plan
An AutoCAD-generated plan showing the exact location and specification of protective fencing, ground protection, and other control measures. It ensures that contractors understand and implement tree safeguards consistently and effectively on site.
About Down to Earth Tree Reports and Consultancy
Down to Earth Trees Ltd delivers high quality consultancy advice and detailed reports on all tree related matters to an extensive list of private and commercial clients. We work closely with each to create concise tree reports produced in a very easy to understand professional format. Our combined wealth of tree related experience has been providing cost effective solutions for all aspects of tree care and management for over 45 years.
A Complete Solution: From Planning to Tree Surgery
What sets Down to Earth Trees Ltd apart is our ability to provide a complete solution for your development. Beyond consultancy, we offer tree surgery services to carry out any necessary tree works identified during the survey stages. Whether it’s pruning, crown reductions, or tree removals, our experienced arborists ensure all work complies with planning requirements, leaving your site fully prepared for development.
Why Choose Down to Earth Trees Ltd?
Expertise You Can Trust: With over 45 years of experience, our highly qualified consultants and tree surgeons are equipped to handle even the most complex planning scenarios.
Cutting-Edge Tools: We use industry-standard AutoCAD software to create professional, scalable plans that integrate seamlessly with your architectural and engineering documents.
Comprehensive Services: From surveys and reports to tree protection plans and practical tree works, we provide end-to-end support tailored to your project’s needs.
Sustainability at the Core: Our solutions are designed to balance environmental preservation with development goals, ensuring compliance and long-term benefits for the community.
Areas we cover
We cover most of the South East including Kent, Surrey, Sussex, London and Essex.
Book Your BS5837 Survey Today
Navigate the planning process with confidence. From detailed surveys and reports to expert tree management, Down to Earth Trees Ltd ensures full BS 5837 compliance for your project. Contact us to get started today.