Trees are essential to our environment. They provide us with shade, clean air and a connection to nature. However, there are instances when trees need to go. Tree removal may be necessary due to safety concerns, disease or landscape requirements. At Simpson Arboriculture, our dedicated team of arborists understand the delicate balance between preserving nature and insuring safety. In this blog, we’ll explore the various reasons why trees might need to be removed and how our tree removal services can help you maintain a safe and beautiful landscape.  

Safety First: Hazardous Trees

While trees enhance the beauty of any landscape, they can also pose significant risk if they become hazardous. Trees with compromised structural integrity due to disease or storm damage can become unstable. Dead or weakened branches might fall unexpectedly, endangering people and property. Our certified arborists at Simpson Arboriculture have the expertise to assess the health of your trees and can recommend any action that might need to be taken. If tree removal is necessary, we prioritise the safety of your property and everyone around it.

Disease Control and Prevention

Trees, like any other living organisms, can fall victim to diseases that can spread to neighbouring vegetation. If a tree is diseased and this cannot be treated effectively, tree removal can be the best option. By acting promptly, you can protect the health of other trees on your property and maintain a vibrant, disease-free landscape.

Landscape enhancement

Sometimes, tree removal is necessary to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of your outdoor space. Overgrown trees might block sunlight, inhibit the growth of other plants, or disrupt the balance of your landscaping design. Our arborists can help you decide which trees should be removed to improve the overall look of your garden. We’ll also provide recommendations for suitable replacement trees to maintain the natural beauty of your landscape.  

Expert Tree Removal Services

When it comes to tree removal, it’s essential to hire professionals with the right equipment, knowledge and experience. At Simpson Arboriculture, we employ a skilled team of arborists and use advanced equipment to ensure safe and efficient tree removal. We have invested in the highest range machinery available. We utilise modern techniques to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Every job is different, but we have the right tools to get the job done.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we understand the importance of taking responsibility for the environment. While tree removal is sometimes necessary, we are committed to promoting sustainable practices. We recycle 100% of our waste. Wood chippings become fuel in biomass boilers, or are used as garden mulch. All waste wood is recycled into firewood logs or used in our boilers for fuel to heat our log kiln.

Whenever possible, we explore alternative solutions, such as pruning or crown reducing a tree to mitigate risks and preserve valuable trees. Additionally, we can offer guidance on options for replanting and actively encourage this wherever possible.

Tree Removal: Get in Touch

When trees need to go, it’s essential to rely on experienced professionals who prioritise safety, health, and environmental responsibility. Simpson Arboriculture is dedicated to providing expert tree removal services that prioritise your property’s safety and beauty while minimising the impact on the environment. Whether it’s a hazardous tree, a diseased tree or landscape development, our team is here to help. You can give us a call in the office or contact us via our website.

Welcome to Simpson Arboriculture, your trusted local tree surgeons based in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. We take great pride in offering high standard tree work both in our local community and further afield. We have a deep-rooted passion for trees and a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our community. In this blog, we invite you to learn more about Simpson Arboriculture, the range of services we provide and reasons why you should choose us for your next garden project.

Your Local Tree Surgeons: Who We Are

Started by William Simpson back in 2006, Simpson Arboriculture is a trustworthy, professional and well-established tree surgery company. Based on the family farm, Will and his wife Kate work full-time to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the business. Kate runs the office while Will works daily on-site and manages multiple teams carrying out various tree work and site clearance across Lincolnshire and further afield. We 17 years’ experience, we have built up a loyal customer base and a great reputation as professional local tree surgeons.

Your Local Tree Surgeons: Our services

  1. Tree surgery. As trusted local tree surgeons, we have a great reputation for carrying out quality tree work. We specialise in carrying out tree work to ‘British Standards BS3998: 2010 Tree Work Recommendations’. This means that the finished result not only looks great, but supports the overall health of the tree.   
  • Tree removal. While trees are a fantastic asset, sometimes they do require removal. Our professional and trustworthy arborists will be able to discuss and explain the options for tree removal.
  • Hedge care and tree planting. Simpson Arboriculture offer hedge trimming and hedge reduction. We are also proud to offer both tree and hedge planting services. With extensive tree and hedge knowledge, our team are always happy to advise you.
  • Fencing. From sourcing to installation, our team at Simpson Arboriculture can manage the whole fencing project from start to finish on a wide variety of fences. We carry out the work in a professional and timely manner.
  • Site clearance. Our specialised machinery make light work of removing trees and vegetation from a site. We get the job done in the safest, most efficient and cost-effective way possible.
  • Firewood. Our ‘Ready to Burn’ kiln-dried, hardwood logs are available throughout the year and delivered directly to your door. Logs are sustainably sourced using BSL authorised virgin wood.

Why Choose Us?

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture consists of experienced and qualified arborists who are passionate about trees and have many years of experience.

We have been officially recognised as being qualified to perform tree work by multiple health and safety bodies. This recognises that we work safely and efficiently and carry out tree work to the highest standard. We are proud to be recognised as an Arb Approved Contractor. This is the most prestigious accreditation scheme in the arboricultural industry. It’s a great way for customers to recognise a professional and qualified tree surgery company. Customer satisfaction is always a top priority for us. We carry out work to the highest standard, giving you peace of mind from start to finish.

With a friendly and professional team, many of our customers come back year on year and recommend us to their neighbours, friends and family.

Contact Us

If you’re in interested in finding out more about how we can help with your next garden project, you can call our office or submit an enquiry via our website. We would be happy to discuss your future requirements and arrange a free quotation.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we take immense pride in our tree pruning and are committed to enhancing the beauty of your landscape. Trees are not only a vital part of our environment; they are also a significant investment in your property. Proper tree care and maintenance is essential to ensure their health, longevity and aesthetic appeal. In this blog, we will explore the art and science of tree pruning and how it can unlock the full potential of your trees.

Understanding the importance of tree pruning

Tree pruning is not simply about trimming away branches. It is a carefully planned and executed process aimed at improving tree health and structure. Pruning can remove dead, diseased or damaged branches, thus improving the overall health of the tree. Proper pruning can also transform the appearance of your trees, shaping them to complement your landscape and improving the visual appeal of your garden.

By eliminating crowded or crossing branches, pruning allows more sunlight and air circulation and stimulates new growth. Furthermore, regular attention reduces the risk of falling branches, thus making the tree safer. Our expert team of arborists at Simpson Arboriculture are qualified and experienced in carrying out tree pruning to a high standard.

The art of tree pruning: techniques

Different species and their growth patterns require specific pruning techniques for optimal results. Some common pruning methods include:

Crown thinning. This involves selectively removing inner branches to improve light penetration and air circulation within the crown, promoting healthy growth.

Crown raising. Raising the lower branches can create clearance for pedestrians, vehicles and buildings while maintaining the tree’s integrity.

Crown reduction. When a tree has grown too large for its surroundings, crown reduction helps reduce its height and spread, ensuring that it remains safe and visually appealing.

Deadwood removal. Removing dead or dying branches not only improves the tree’s appearance, but also eliminates potential hazards.

The science behind tree pruning

Pruning is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It requires a thorough understanding of tree biology and growth patterns. Our skilled arborists at Simpson Arboriculture assess each tree and recommend an approach accordingly. Factors such as species, age, health and time of year all play a part in determining the pruning approach that is needed.  

Our team ensures that pruning is carried out during the appropriate seasons, as different trees respond differently to pruning at various times of the year. For example, deciduous trees are best pruned during their dormant season, while some flowering trees are pruned after they bloom.

Trust the experts at Simpson Arboriculture

Tree pruning is a delicate task that requires expertise, knowledge and the right tools. Attempting to prune your own trees can result in irreversible damage to the tree or even pose risks to your safety. By entrusting the care of your trees to our skilled professionals, you can be confident that the work will be carried out to a high standard.

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture provides top-notch tree surgery. Get in touch with us today to discuss your tree pruning needs. We would be more than happy to discuss the work with you. You can contact us by phone in the office or send us an enquiry via our website

The benefits of trees are vast. Firstly, trees are amazing for the environment. They are fantastic at removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, cooling air temperatures and are great for wildlife. Secondly, we all enjoy the aesthetic of a leafy green street or garden.

However, many tree owners are already aware of the risk trees can pose. This is especially important during times of turbulent and unpredictable weather.

Tree owners have a responsibility to ensure that their trees are healthy and stable. Therefore, they should ensure that any trees on their property do not pose a risk to people or property. Expert tree surgery can ensure that storm damage is prevented or minimised.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we have seen first-hand the catastrophic damage trees can do to homes and gardens during heavy storms. A falling limb can quickly destroy a garden fence or greenhouse. Moreover, a whole tree can cause huge damage to a roof or wall of a house, not to mention anyone unlucky enough to be nearby at the time.    

Simpson Arboriculture have an experienced and fully qualified team of arborists who can help. With careful inspection, pre-planning and expert tree care, these worst-case scenarios can be pre-empted and avoided.

The Role of Tree Surgery in Mitigating Storm Damage

Structurally sound trees should be able to withstand high winds and heavy rainfall. However, if trees have a weak point, overgrown branches or an unbalanced crown, storms and gale force winds can cause trees to snap and break, or even become fully uprooted. This paints a worrying picture for any homeowner and the fear of such a scenario arising can cause a huge amount of stress and worry.

Assessing and identifying potential hazards

We would always suggest keeping on top of your tree maintenance. At Simpson Arboriculture, we will come out and assess your tree work needs and advise you on what is required to keep your trees strong and healthy. This can ensure that any potential issues can be addressed. We can then plan for our team to come back and carry out the work, hopefully before any bad weather.

Techniques for storm damage resistance

As with any tree surgery we carry out, this will depend on the tree. Any work that we suggest will depend on the size, shape and health of the trees concerned. However, strategic pruning, including crown thinning and reduction can help reduce wind resistance and minimise the likelihood of branches breaking or trees falling.

Get in touch about storm damage prevention

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture are always happy to discuss your tree surgery needs with you and advise on what work might be needed. We can help keep your trees strong, stable and minimise the risk of storm damage. You can get in touch with us via our website anytime, or give us a call in the office to discuss.

Post and rail fencing

Summer is right around the corner! For us, this means looking forward to spending long days in the garden, barbecues and warm summer evenings enjoying a glass or two around a roaring fire pit.

How can Simpson Arboriculture help get your garden ready for summer?

Hedge trimming

Are your hedges looking a little unruly after the long winter months? Our team at Simpson Arboriculture are experienced in maintaining trees and hedges too. Creating clean lines and crisp edges really does add to the first impressions of your garden or driveway. Not only will this promote healthy growth, it will also ensure that your hedges remain vibrant and lush throughout the summer months.

Our friendly team at Simpson Arboriculture are always happy to discuss the work with you, answer any questions and listen to customers’ input to ensure the desired outcome for the work is achieved.

Fencing        

Fresh new fencing really can add a new lease of life to your garden. It adds security and privacy, whilst adding interest and style too. Simpson Arboriculture provide a comprehensive fencing service. From providing a quotation and sourcing fencing materials to carrying out the work in a professional and timely manner, our experienced team can advise you about different fencing possibilities, e.g., panel, feather edge or Lincolnshire post and rail fencing. It is a great investment in your property.

Firewood logs available throughout the summer

There are plenty of ways to put your logs to good use over the summer months. One common use is for outdoor fire pits or chimeneas during summer evenings. They can also be used for cooking on BBQs or pizza ovens, adding a delicious smoky flavour to your food. In addition, firewood can be used for camping trips or outdoor events, providing warmth and ambiance on cool summer nights. Our ‘Ready to Burn’ hardwood logs are sustainably sourced and kiln dried. They are processed and delivered all year round. Summer is the ideal time to get stocked up before the winter rush! Delivery is free within 10 miles of Ancaster including Grantham, Sleaford and within postcode NG32.

Hedge planting

Our society is becoming more conscious of the importance of environmental preservation. Tree surgery emerges as an important profession in promoting sustainability. It can help maintain the health of our urban and natural landscapes. At Simpson Arboriculture, we are highly aware of the environmental benefits of tree surgery. We also understand that this puts us in a responsible position both in our local environment and in the bigger environmental network.

Beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal, tree surgery plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing the environment. In this blog, we will explore the numerous environmental benefits of tree surgery and how it contributes to a healthier planet.

Carbon sequestration

Trees are nature’s most efficient carbon sequestration machines. Through the process of photosynthesis, this basically means they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it to oxygen, releasing it back into the air. However, trees can become stressed or diseased, inhibiting their ability to perform this vital function. Tree surgeons such as our experienced Simpson Arboriculture team, play a key role in identifying and treating these issues, ensuring that trees continue to thrive, mitigating climate change and improving air quality.

Reducing urban heat

Urban areas tend to experience higher temperatures due to the “urban heat island effect.” Trees offer a natural solution to counteract this phenomenon. They provide shade, reduce surface temperatures and cool the surrounding air through the process of evapotranspiration. Tree surgeons such as our team at Simpson Arboriculture help maintain the urban tree canopy, allowing cities to enjoy cooler temperatures.

Ecosystem preservation

Trees are integral components of diverse ecosystems, supporting a wide range of wildlife. By providing habitat, food and shelter, trees attract various bird species, insects and mammals. Arborists play a critical role in preserving these ecosystems by removing hazardous branches, promoting tree health and carrying out appropriate pruning. By safeguarding the wellbeing of trees, we can indirectly support the wildlife that depends on them for survival.

Stormwater management

Trees play a vital role in managing stormwater runoff, especially in urban environments. Their extensive root systems act as natural filters, absorbing and slowing down rainfall, reducing soil erosion and preventing floods. Our experienced team can assess the health of your trees, ensuring their roots are intact and able to perform this important function effectively. By doing so, they contribute to improved water quality and reduced strain on drainage systems.

Biodiversity enhancement

By selecting and planting tree species that support a broad range of biodiversity, we can aid in the diversification of urban landscapes. By introducing native and diverse tree species, we can create valuable habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife. This contributes to the overall ecological balance. Tree surgeons play a crucial role in removing invasive species and diseased trees which can impact negatively on local ecosystems.

Conclusion

Tree surgery is far more than just pruning and removing branches. It is a profession that carries significant environmental benefits. Through the expertise of tree surgeons such as our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture, we can help to ensure the health, longevity and vitality of our trees. By recognising and appreciating the environmental benefits of tree surgery, we can take another step towards a greener and more sustainable future for our planet.  

We would be happy to discuss what maintenance we could offer to help your trees continue to thrive. For more information, you can call us in the office or send us an enquiry via our website.

Tree surgery is a beneficial and worthwhile investment for homeowners. It can make your trees safer and healthier and even add value to your home. At Simpson Arboriculture, one of the questions we are most asked is ‘How much does tree surgery cost?’. This is an important question for anyone considering having tree work carried out.  

There are many factors that we take into consideration when pricing tree surgery work. It is important for customers to be aware of these factors. Our aim in this blog is to demystify the process. We want to help our customers to understand more about how a price is reached. We are always happy to provide a breakdown of a given price and answer any questions you may have.

One size doesn’t fit all

Every job is different and there is no ‘One size fits all’ when it comes to tree surgery. There are copious different species of trees. There are also numerous types of tree surgery, from pruning to removal. All of these require different lengths of time, different equipment and approaches. For example, the annual pruning of a small fruit tree may only take an hour using hand tools. This may involve an arborist working from the ground. This would therefore result in a lower price than any larger job.

A removal of a large beech tree would require a completely different approach. This may require a larger team of arborists, the hiring of equipment such as a Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP). A job of this scale could take several days. This would therefore increase both the labour and equipment costs. These are just two examples and there are many more in between that would result in a different cost. This is due to factors such as the labour, equipment involved and the method required to carry out the work.

Location

When it comes to tree surgery, location is an important factor to consider. This encompasses many elements within it and can certainly have an impact on tree surgery cost. We ask questions such as:

  • What is the access like?
  • Is it in close proximity to a building?
  • Are there any powerlines overhead?
  • Is there space for our equipment close to the tree?
  • Are there any other obstacles to avoid?

A situation we often come across is trees being situated in a garden with a narrow access from the road. This sort of job would likely take longer due to our team having to remove any waste by hand. Our team may be required to remove any waste by hand, and then chipped on the roadside or removed in a van or trailer.

Another consideration would be if a tree was situated in a garden with many obstacles. For example, this could be a conservatory, a summer house or a children’s play area. Our experienced team can work carefully to avoid any such obstacles, but this can mean that a job takes longer.

The condition of a tree

This is another important factor that needs careful consideration from an expert. Is the tree in poor condition? What about evidence of disease or fungi? Is the tree safe for our arborists to climb? Does it have dangerous overhanging branches?

If a tree is dead/ dying or generally in poor condition, this would have a big impact on what approach is needed. Safety is always a top priority for us at Simpson Arboriculture, and minimising the risk requires careful planning prior to work being carried out.

If a tree is unsafe to climb, we may choose to use mechanical methods such as a tractor, excavator or MEWP. The hiring of mechanical equipment can make a job more expensive. Although, it’s also worth considering that mechanical methods can be much quicker and more efficient than manual methods, so in some cases it would decrease the overall cost. Again, all jobs are different and it will depend on the circumstances and nature of the work.

What next?

At Simpson Arboriculture, we will arrange for an experienced member of our team to come out and do a quote in person. We find that this is the best way to understand what work is required, and the scale and nature of the job. They will also be able to access what the access is like and whether it would be possible to access the trees with our equipment such as a chipper, MEWP or stump grinder.

If you are interested in finding out tree surgery cost, get in touch with us either by phone or via our website. We would be happy to provide any information you need and discuss options with you.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we know all about how useful and valuable tree surgery is. There really are so many benefits! But as a customer, it can sometimes be confusing. Do my trees need work? What are the benefits of tree surgery? Is it really a good investment? It is certainly worth you asking these important questions.

As experienced tree surgeons, we would always encourage you to explore the reasons for wanting to carry out tree work. It is also worth considering what your aims are for your garden and property.  This could be aesthetic; it could also be practical. Whatever you’re thinking, we can help!

In this blog we aim to explain and clarify what the benefits of tree surgery are and explore how you and your trees might benefit.

Safety first

Tree surgery helps identify and address potential hazards such as dead branches, diseased trees, or unstable limbs. These things could all pose a risk to your property and your family. We know many of our customers at Simpson Arboriculture want to rule out the risk of a branch or tree failing. The thought of a branch or tree failing can quickly become an ongoing worry. For example, a branch snapping could destroy a fence or summer house. In an even worse scenario, this could cause damage to a house or even injury to a person. Expert tree surgery can eliminate this worry. At Simpson Arboriculture, we use a wide variety of techniques to help remove the risk of a tree failing.

Healthy trees

Another important point is that tree surgery can promote the overall health and vitality of your trees. Our fully qualified arborists at Simpson Arboriculture can help to care for your trees and ensure they thrive and live longer.

Increased Property Value

Well-maintained trees significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Professional tree surgery can improve the overall appearance, which can increase your property’s value. Our team at Simpson Arboriculture would be happy to talk to you about your aims for your garden and help you to achieve this through the right tree work.

Improved Structural Integrity

Tree surgery techniques like pruning and trimming can improve the structural integrity of trees. By removing weak or overgrown branches, you reduce the risk of breakage during storms or high winds, safeguarding your property and nearby structures.

Enhanced Sunlight Exposure

Overgrown trees can block sunlight from reaching your property and garden, inhibiting the growth of other plants. Tree surgery helps maintain a balanced canopy, allowing adequate light penetration and encouraging the growth of undergrowth or garden vegetation. At Simpson Arboriculture, we often carry out crown thinning on trees to achieve this purpose. This can make a huge difference to the amount of light coming into the garden, thus ensuring that homeowners can enjoy their garden through the year.  

Storm Damage Mitigation

Trees that have undergone regular tree surgery are better equipped to withstand severe weather conditions. Proper pruning and maintenance can reduce the likelihood of storm damage, including falling limbs or uprooted trees that could cause significant property damage.

Environmental Sustainability

By investing in tree surgery, you actively contribute to environmental sustainability. Healthy trees provide shade, reduce energy consumption by cooling your property naturally, and act as a habitat for birds and other wildlife, fostering biodiversity.

Trees also play a crucial role in purifying the air by absorbing harmful pollutants and releasing oxygen. Tree surgery ensures the continued health and vitality of trees. This contributes to cleaner air and a healthier environment around your property.

How we can help

In conclusion, it is always best to seek the advise of a qualified tree surgery company. At Simpson Arboriculture, we offer free quotations and can advise customers on their tree care and how their trees might benefit from having work carried out.

For more information, speak to our friendly team by phoning our office. You can also enquire on our website. We would be happy to arrange a site visit to discuss your tree work needs and help you discover how you and your trees could benefit.

With a myriad of companies now offering tree work, the big question is ‘How do I choose the right tree surgeon?’ This is a valid question and one that we at Simpson Arboriculture are very aware of. We know it can be challenging for customers to decide on the right people for the job. How do you know if the company know what they’re doing? Are they insured? What about their qualifications and training?

Therefore, asking the right questions is the best place to start.

What does the right tree surgery company look like?

Firstly, we would suggest having a look at a tree surgery company’s website. I’m sure you know that any reasonable company will include sufficient information here, including their insurance, accreditations and examples of previous work carried out. It will also give you an indication of how professional the tree surgery company is. It’s useful to know that companies often include testimonials from previous customers too which gives a realistic and honest reflection on their work and capabilities. Another thing you can do is search for Google reviews to find out more.

A few questions that are worth asking are:

  1. Are they insured?
  2. Are they fully qualified?
  3. Do they have the right tools for the job?
  4. How experienced are they?
  5. What about their work standards?
  6. What do their previous customers say?

With that in mind, it is certainly worth giving them a call or an email. This will be telling about a company’s customer service. You will soon get a feel if they are friendly and approachable or not.

Great tree surgeons have a great reputation

Another thing to think about is how well established the tree surgery company are in your local area. It’s usually worth asking around to see who your friends, family and neighbours use for their tree and hedge work. This is a great way to get an honest and authentic answer about the company’s customer service, the standard of work and the level of experience and competency of the arborists.  

Consult the experts on choosing your tree surgeons

For more information on how to choose the right tree surgeon, the Arboricultural Association (Arb Association) have produced a helpful leaflet on choosing a tree surgeon. This will give you some further details about the questions you should be asking and other considerations when choosing a tree surgeon.  

As Arb Approved contractors, Simpson Arboriculture have completed a thorough and rigorous checking process to gain this prestigious accreditation. Many customers are already aware that it is highly valued and widely recognised in the industry. This accreditation gives our customers peace of mind that we are the right people for the job, so you can make

Choosing a tree surgeon

In conclusion, there are so many reasons why you should choose Simpson Arboriculture as the tree surgery company to carry out your tree work:

  • We’ve got the tools. At Simpson Arboriculture, we are fully equipped with our own machinery and utilise modern techniques to get the job done quickly, efficiently and safely
  • Fully insured. With our Public and Employers’ Liability Insurance in place, we are fully covered for all aspects of the work we carry out. This gives our customers and clients peace of mind. We take care of everything!
  • High standards. All work is carried out to ‘British Standards BS 3998: 2010 Tree Work- recommendations’. So our team will ensure that the finished result both looks great and supports the overall health of the tree
  • Certified. We have been officially recognised as being qualified to perform tree work by multiple health and safety bodies. This recognises that we work safely and carry out work to the highest standard
  • 17 years’ experience. We are a trusted and well-established local tree surgery company. With ample experience, we have worked hard to build a strong customer base and a great reputation, both locally and further afield
  • Great customer support. With a friendly and professional team, many of our customers come back year on year and recommend us to their neighbours, family and friends
  • Environmental awareness. From ecology to biosecurity, we work alongside a wide range of professionals to minimise our environmental footprint. Our waste is 100% recycled!

Our friendly team are always happy to talk to you about your tree surgery needs. To find out more, give us a call or enquire through our website. At Simpson Arboriculture, we can help you to choose the right tree surgeon for the job!

At Simpson Arboriculture, we understand the importance of tree preservation and the legal frameworks in place to protect our natural environment. In this blog post, we aim to shed light on Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) and conservation areas in England. This aims to help our tree surgery customers understand their significance and how they may impact their trees.

Understanding Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

A Tree Preservation Area (TPO) is usually made and managed by a local planning authority, i.e. a local council. As the name suggests, they aim to preserve and protect a tree, woodland or group of trees. These are trees or groups that are valuable to the local area.

TPOs make it unlawful to cut, damage or fell a recognised tree without permission from the local planning authority.

The best way to check if a tree has a TPO is on the local council website. Local council websites often include interactive maps where you can check for any TPOs.

Exploring Conservation Areas

So what defines a conservation area? This is a designated area within a town, village or urban area that is considered to have special architectural or historical interest. These areas are often recognised by their unique character, distinctive buildings and overall environmental quality. Their aim is to preserve heritage and natural beauty.

If an area is designated as a conservation area, it is subject to stricter planning controls and regulations compared to non-designated areas. This includes trees!

However, there are some exemptions. According to the Arboricultural Association:

“You do not need to give notice of work on a tree in conservation area less than 7.5 centimetres in diameter, measured 1.5 metres above the ground (or 10 centimetres if thinning to help the growth of other trees”.

Hedges are also exempt from conservation area restrictions.

How we can help

If you are within a conservation area or want to carry out work on any of your TPO trees, we can help! At Simpson Arboriculture, we are very familiar with the process of putting together an application and applying for permissions for the work. Homeowners can find this process a bit daunting if they haven’t done it before. So for a small admin fee, we can take the stress away and oversee the whole application process.  

Simply give you a call in the office or visit our website. We can arrange a convenient day and time for one of our team to come and do a site visit. Our experienced team can quote for any tree surgery work and discuss details regarding an application you may want to make. On acceptance of the quotation, we can then begin the application process on your behalf.