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 Survey, Tree Constraints Report & Tree Constraints Plan
Site Assessment
We conduct thorough on-site surveys to document each tree’s location, species, dimensions, condition, and retention value in accordance with BS5837 guidelines.
Tree Constraints Report (TCR)
A detailed report summarising tree data and identifying constraints posed by trees. This helps to inform early design decisions.
Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)
A visual map outlining surveyed trees and their Root Protection Areas (RPAs), showing areas that must be protected during development. Using AutoCAD©, we produce precise, professional plans that integrate seamlessly with your project’s design documents, ensuring clarity and accuracy for architects and planners.
Stage 2: Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA)
Impact Analysis
We overlay your proposed development plans onto the Tree Constraints Plan, identifying potential conflicts between trees and the proposed design.
Mitigation Strategies
Our team develops practical solutions to address identified conflicts. Recommendations may include alternative designs, tree protection measures, or enhancements to balance development goals with tree retention.
Stage 3: Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS)
Detailed Guidance
Comprehensive instructions for working near trees, covering all phases of development—including access routes, material storage, and construction methods to prevent damage to retained trees.
Tree Protection Plan
A visual representation detailing the protective measures, such as fencing or ground guards, to safeguard trees throughout the construction process. Our AutoCAD-generated plans provide clear and precise guidance for contractors on-site.
About Down to Earth Tree Reports and Consultancy
Down to Earth 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 35 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.