What protection exists for trees?
There are several different types of tree protection: Tree Preservation Orders can be placed on trees by the local authority. Tree Preservation Orders, (known as TPO’s), can be placed on either individual trees, or on groups, areas or even entire woodlands. TPO’s afford the trees a high level of protection because the local authority must give consent on any proposals to fell or undertake any works to them. Trees within Conservation Areas are protected as long as they meet the minimum size requirements. They must have a trunk diameter of 7.5cm measured at 1.5 metres above ground level. If the trees in question measure this size or greater then they are protected regardless of their species. In cases where removal of trees is proposed under a thinning exercise, the size at which the protection becomes valid is increased to a trunk diameter of 10cm measured at 1.5 metres above ground level. Felling Licence must be obtained from the Forestry Commission, (tel 01672 511767), for felling and
