Arboricultural Method Statement – Preventing damage to retained trees

The next stage in complying with BS5837:2012 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction – Recommendations is the preparation of an Arboricultural Method Statement that addresses the issues identified in the Arboricultural Impact Assessment. You’ll often need an Arboricultural Method Statement to discharge planning conditions.

While preparing the Arboricultural Method Statement, I will carefully consider the development operations, arboricultural information and constraints and specify methods of working that will minimise damage to retained trees and maximise their future value.

Areas I may consider include:

• Removing existing buildings and hardstanding
• Ground protection
• Excavations
• Installation of new hardstanding
• Foundations
• Changes in ground levels
• New landscaping

What I’ll need from you

If I wasn’t the tree consultant that carried out your Pre-Development Tree Survey or Arboricultural Impact Assessment, I’ll need copies from you, together with the associated Tree Constraints Plan.

I’ll also need copies of your architect’s development layout drawing and any other relevant drawings.

What you’ll receive from me

You’ll receive a detailed Arboricultural Method Statement specifying step by step methods of working for your demolition and construction contractors to minimise the impact of their operations on retained trees, both now and in the future, together with details of how the development operations must be monitored.