Trees, Science and Opinion
3rd February 2025
The debate around planning reform and environmental regulations is heating up, but beyond the political noise lies an opportunity to create a more efficient, proportionate approach to tree surveys for planning. At AWA, we believe that excessive arboricultural assessments often slow down projects unnecessarily—especially when dealing with low-value trees. A smarter system would focus expert input where it truly matters, ensuring meaningful tree protection without unnecessary delays. Read more on how a streamlined approach could benefit both development and the environment.
22nd January 2025
Are Developers and Councils Meeting Tree Commitments? At AWA Trees, our focus is on tree surveys for planning. This work raises important questions about the priority of trees in relation to new developments.
17th January 2025
Could coppicing be used more in urban forestry? This ancient practice, championed by arboriculturists, enhances biodiversity, supports tree preservation, and offers cost-effective solutions for sustainable urban landscapes.
13th September 2024
The long-awaited draft revision of BS5837: Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition, and Construction – Code of Practice has finally arrived. It represents the most significant update to the British Standard since the last revision in 2012. For tree consultants, urban planners, and developers, this revision could have a profound impact on how trees are integrated into design and construction projects. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes, what they mean for trees and planning, and how you can, and […]
12th April 2024
It is very sad to hear of the death of Dr. David Lonsdale, who passed away on 9th April 2024. Undoubtedly, he stood as the preeminent tree expert in the UK, serving as an inspiration to myself and countless others within the profession. His seminal work, “Principles of Tree Hazard Assessment and Management,” published in 1999, established the gold standard in tree risk assessment and management for decades to come. It was the first professional arboriculture book I purchased 25 […]
15th November 2023
The Ultimate Guide to Sheffield Tree Survey Reports for Planning Applications When it comes to planning applications in Sheffield that involve trees on your property, having a comprehensive BS5837 tree survey report can make all the difference. Whether you are a homeowner or a developer in the Sheffield area, understanding the significance of these tree survey reports can make for a smoother planning application process and ensure compliance with local tree related planning regulations. Sheffield is known for being one […]
3rd November 2023
A Review of the ‘Getting to Know Conifers’ Course by the Field Studies Council Arboriculturists Lucy, Sophie and Joe at AWA Tree Consultants recently had the opportunity to attend a weekend residential course called ‘Getting to Know Conifers’ at the Preston Montford Field Studies Council Centre. Under the expert guidance of Mark Duffell of Arvensis Ecology, this botanical tree course was thoroughly enjoyable and a brilliant learning experience. The course is aimed at people who would like to improve their […]
24th October 2023
Last month, the tree survey team at AWA Tree Consultants embarked on a journey of discovery into the fascinating Kingdom of fungi! Through attending the ‘Learning Fungi Identification Skills’ workshop at Whisby Nature Park in Lincoln and the ‘Practical Fungi Field Skills’ course at Haddon Hall, Derbyshire (both organised by the Field Studies Council), our team broadened their knowledge and appreciation of the often-misunderstood fungi kingdom. Arborists and tree consultants have tended to focus on the wood decay fungi that […]
24th August 2023
The phrase “carrot and stick” is a metaphor for the use of a combination of reward and punishment to induce a desired behaviour or outcome. In terms of arboriculture and urban forestry, the desired behaviour or outcome is to maximise the countless environmental and societal benefits urban trees provide. Street and park trees account for only small fraction of an urban forest. The public sector owns only 8% of England, with most land being owned by private individuals, companies and […]
14th August 2023
Bats and trees have an ancient relationship, with trees providing vital roosting and foraging habitats for these fascinating creatures. In the UK, bats are an important part of our biodiversity, and all bat species, their breeding sites and roosting habitats are fully protected under European law, to safeguard their populations. Bat surveys are generally undertaken by professional Ecologists, who hold the appropriate and up-to-date survey licence to carry out surveys for bats. Here, AWA Tree Consultants in-house bat fanatic – […]