Arboriculture

Ensuring tree health, safety, and compliance with Duty of Care obligations.

In the built environment, maintaining an inventory of tree stock is essential for meeting Duty of Care obligations. Arboricultural risk assessments and tree condition surveys provide a comprehensive evaluation of the tree stock, identifying the need for remedial actions to address current or potential hazards. This ensures that tree owners remain compliant with legal requirements.

At Ecosphere Ecology, our experienced arboriculturists conduct assessments of individual trees as well as large populations, identifying signs of decay, disease, and structural defects that could lead to failure. We recognise the vital ecosystem services that trees provide and take a considerate approach that aims to minimise arboricultural losses while preserving the safety of people and property.

Supporting development while safeguarding trees and meeting planning requirements.

BS 5837 surveys are essential for planning applications, ensuring that trees within a proposed development site are properly assessed and integrated into the design. Trees offer vital environmental, social, and ecological benefits, and their retention within the built environment positively impacts both people and nature. Surveys related to design, demolition, and construction adhere to the standards set out in the BS 5837 publication.

At Ecosphere Ecology, we offer the full suite of BS 5837 deliverables, including pre-development arboricultural surveys to record tree parameters and assess their condition, Arboricultural Impact Assessments (AIA) to evaluate the effects of a proposed development on existing tree stock, and Arboricultural Method Statements (AMS) to outline tree protection measures for the construction phase.

Our supporting Tree Constraints Plans (TCP) and Tree Protection Plans (TPP) are provided in CAD or GIS formats to a high standard. With extensive experience in navigating the planning system and delivering arboricultural work, we focus on pragmatic solutions, always striving to balance tree protection with the project’s objectives.

Data-driven approach to managing tree risk with precision.

The Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA) method is a robust, systematic tool for assessing and managing tree-related risks near people and property. Unlike traditional assessments, QTRA uses a numerical framework to quantify risk, considering both the likelihood of tree failure and its potential consequences.

QTRA evaluates key factors such as species, size, structural condition, location, and environmental influences. Each tree is assigned a numerical risk score, enabling landowners, developers, and tree managers to make informed tree management decisions.

At Ecosphere Ecology, we provide expert QTRA assessments, identifying high-risk trees and prioritising action on those that pose a genuine threat to people or property. Our mitigation plans include clear, evidence-based recommendations, such as pruning, removal, or monitoring.

Our QTRA assessments offer clarity and precision, ensuring legal and safety compliance while helping you fulfil Duty of Care obligations with minimal tree loss and retained environmental benefits.

Detailed canopy inspections for tree health and protected species assessments.

In some cases, a thorough assessment of structural weaknesses or wildlife habitat features identified from the ground can only be made from within the canopy. In these instances, our team of qualified tree climbers and ecologists possess the expertise and technical qualifications to conduct aerial surveys using rope and harness. We always adhere to industry best practices and Work at Height Regulations, to ensure inspections are carried out safely and efficiently. Where required, we also hold the necessary accreditations and equipment to perform light aerial pruning work – for example, when a defective limb supporting a potential roosting feature has been assessed as negligible.

Expert guidance on tree preservation and compliance with regulations.

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a legal protection granted by the Local Planning Authority (LPA) to trees of significant amenity, historical, environmental, or ecological value. This instrument safeguards trees from damage or removal without proper consultation. Except for limited health and safety exemptions, consent from the LPA is required before any work can be carried out. Failing to seek approval for tree works on a TPO tree can lead to significant fines and prosecution. A similar degree of protection is afforded to trees within Conservation Areas, where works are also subject to LPA approval.

A professional assessment can help ensure that proposed remedial works are approved by the tree officer; furthermore, consultation with an arboriculturist can clarify common misconceptions about tree safety and prevent unnecessary interventions.

At Ecosphere Ecology, we provide expert guidance on all TPO-related matters, managing applications to ensure full compliance while outlining clear, professional specifications for tree management and works. We also offer Detailed Amenity Assessments to evaluate the contribution of trees to local amenity and character.

Sustaining ecosystems and promoting long-term environmental benefits through strategic tree planting.

Amid the ecological and climate crisis, trees play a vital role in restoring habitats, sequestering carbon, and enhancing both the environment and human well-being. Tree planting is a powerful tool for improving landscapes, providing essential ecosystem services, and creating a lasting legacy for future generations.

At Ecosphere Ecology, we specialise in tree selection and planting design, tailoring strategies to meet both amenity and landscape needs. Where budgets allow, we support planting plans with soil sampling and analysis to ensure species suitability before implementation.

We also provide expert guidance on tree stock management, from newly planted urban trees to mature woodland specimens. Using a range of survey methods, we develop monitoring programmes to assess success rates and biodiversity gains. Our comprehensive approach ensures that your tree planting and management strategies deliver measurable benefits for both the environment and the community.