Bournemouth Borough Council

A strategy for the sustainable management and

development of Bournemouth’s trees

Bournemouth Tree Strategy

2014-24

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Bournemouth Parks

Bournemouth Borough Council

East Cemetery Lodge

Gloucester Road

Bournemouth BH7 6JB

T: 01202 451629

e: parks@bournemouth.gov.uk

www.bournemouth.gov.uk/parks

Urban trees and forest patches contribute to air filtering, micro-climate regulation, noise reduction, rainwater runoff reductions, and improved recreation/cultural values (Bolund and Hunhammar 1999 in Brown et al., 2012)

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Contents

1. Introduction 3

2. Definition & Requirement 3

3. History & Landscape Character 3

4. Natural & Physical Environment 6

5. Pests Diseases & Other Challenges 10

6. Economic Value 12

7. Health & Social Value 13

8. Planning Control and Planning Policy in Relation to Trees 14

9. Trees on Council Land 17

10. Understanding Our Tree Population 23

13. Tree Work Operations 25

14. Tree Risk Management 26

Appendix 1: Treescape Character Map 28

Appendix 2: Tree Pruning & Felling Policy 29

Appendix 3: Tree Risk Management Policy 32

Appendix 4: List of native/naturalised tree species 40

Appendix 5: Glossary of Terms 41

References 43

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1. Introduction:

1.1. This strategy recognises the importance of trees, the benefits they afford us

and the increasingly important role they can play in mitigating the effects of climate change, flood amelioration and pollution control. It provides a first point of reference for the management and maintenance of the Boroughs tree population – both public and private.

1.2. The strategy aims to guide future planning for the Borough’s public tree population and ensure a consistent approach is taken to tree management across the Council’s different business units.

1.3. It is designed to provide guidance to those whose activities bring them into contact with trees to ensure that best practice is followed; this includes council officers, councillors, policy makers, arboriculturists, landscape professionals and property developers.

1.4. The strategy recognises that all the trees both public and private in the area form part of a wider ‘urban forest.’

1.5. This strategy supports the Dorset Local Nature Partnership’s (LNP) Vision and strategy for enhancing ‘natural value’ in Dorset’. Many of the reasons for developing this tree strategy are reflected in the LNP document, emphasizing their importance to the long term sustainability of Bournemouth.

2. Definition & Requirement:

2.1. The Department for Communities and Local Government recommend as good practice for Local Authorities that they develop and implement a comprehensive tree strategy.1

2.2. In 2011 Bournemouth Borough Council’s Planning Board requested the production of a Tree Strategy for the Borough to provide a coherent framework for the development of policies for the management, preservation and enhancement of tree cover on both public and private land.

2.3. The strategy sets out to develop clear objectives to be achieved either within set timetables or as part of a planned programme.

3. History & Present Landscape Character:

3.1. Historical records dating to the late 16th Century indicate that much of the

current borough was covered by the mainly deciduous ‘Holdenhurst Wood’ and worked by ‘Woodwards’. By the turn of the 19th Century most of the

1 Trees in Towns II, DCLG (February 2008)

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ancient woodland had been cleared by mans activities and much of the borough formed part of Hardy’s ‘Egdon Heath’ though isolated groups of trees and woodlands still remained.

3.2. The Chines still retained their wooded character and a ‘large fir wood’ stretched east from the area that is now the lower gardens towards present day Boscombe. In 1831 the remains of an ancient pine forest were uncovered during construction of the pier.

3.3. By the end of the 19th Century Bournemouth had picked up the nickname of the ‘Forest City’ because of the vast number of pine and fir trees within the town, millions of trees had been planted during the early 1800’s across the borough’s heaths following the passing of Inclosure Acts.

3.4. Alongside the sea air and bathing, the pine trees of Bournemouth were a key attraction for the town’s early developers and visitors, together providing a semi-natural resort for city dwellers to escape from England’s polluted industrial cities in their thousands. The pine scent was considered to have health giving properties; the presence of so many trees combined with sea breezes produced ‘healthy clean air’ which enabled the town to gain a reputation as a health spa and to grow rapidly. A pine tree can be found within the town’s coat of arms.

3.5. Many of today’s trees are remnants of those planted by our Victorian and Edwardian predecessors along roads, within private gardens and public parks. However a significant number pre-date their present urban setting.

3.6. Bournemouth’s

greenbelt is the remnant of a farming community that spread out along the southern side of the Stour Valley, from Bear Cross to Wick. Many of the

Pine Walk (c. 1900) in the Lower Gardens, formerly called ‘Invalids Walk’ alluding to the town’s reputation as a place of health giving and restorative qualities.

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Charminster Road c.1900

notable trees in this area would have formed parts of the hedgerows for the farms, but there are also some small stands of old woods and coppices, such as Duke’s Coppice in Kinson.

3.7. In places it is possible to identify tree positions in hedgerows that are documented 200 years ago, and may well date back to the medieval period, such as those around Throop Road and Riverside Avenue. Elsewhere many of these old fields have been built over, but some of the ancient trees and former hedgerows still exist, such as those along East Howe Lane.

3.8. Over the last century Bournemouth has changed enormously, with large scale residential and commercial development dominating. However, remnants of woodland, heath, plantations and former farmland can still be found alongside more formal parkland and are all maintained as either public open space or agricultural small holdings. The varied mosaic of landscapes within Bournemouth is both aesthetically attractive and environmentally important (see Treescape Character Map at Appendix 1).

Talbot Woods – c.1900 and 2013

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4. Natural & Physical Environment: Cooling the Urban ‘Heat Island’

4.1. Urban areas are often warmer than surrounding countryside because of extensive heat absorbing surfaces, such as concrete and tarmac, concentrated heat production and impeded air flow (Arnfield, 2003 in Wilebore and Wentworth, 2013). This localised urban warming is known as an ‘urban heat island’.

4.2. During the 2003 heat wave, a temperature difference between urban and rural areas of up to 10°C was recorded for London (Greater London Authority, 2006) and estimates suggest that 40% of the 600 excess deaths in London were due to the urban heat island effect (Mavrogianni et al., 2011).

4.3. The benefit of trees in lowering urban air temperatures through shading and the evaporation of water is recognised in the Heatwave Plan for England 2013.

4.4. In Manchester, the SCORCHIO project predicted that an increase in the area of green space of 10% would reduce the maximum surface temperature by 2.2°C compared to no change in green space. This cooling increases to between 2.4°C and 2.5°C under low and high UKCIP02 climate scenarios. Similar results have been found by modelling projects conducted in Birmingham (BUCCANEER project) and London (LUCID project).

Climate change

4.5. Extreme weather impacts as a result of climate change have been, and will continue to be, increasingly severe and frequent (IPCC, 2007). Bournemouth has experienced flooding, drought, snow storms and extreme heat, the consequences of which have an impacted people, businesses and the natural and built environment.

4.6. Trees provide essential services in relation to mitigating and adapting to climate change – that is, reducing the degree of change to the climate; and helping to adapt to the climate change that does occur.

4.7. The Climate Change Act 2008 sets out a duty for domestic action to be taken on climate change. This has resulted in the target of ensuring that the net UK carbon account for the year 2050 is at least 80% lower than the 1990 baseline. To achieve this various penalties and incentives will become increasingly implemented. It is therefore prudent that the ability of our natural environment to absorb and store carbon is maintained and maximised.

4.8. The borough’s tree population helps mitigate localised effects of climate change by:

• Cooling the urban heat island • Reducing the risk of flooding by intercepting rainfall and soaking up

excess ground water

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• Lowering CO2 levels through photosynthesis and carbon storage

4.9. Furthermore trees can also help us to adapt to climate change by:

• Providing protection from heavy rainfall (e.g. reducing soil run off)

• Providing cool shade from intense sun and heat

• Providing biomass for local heat and energy production

4.10. It is important to note that future planning is essential in building our resilience to climate change. There is a lag of 20-100 years between planting trees and benefitting fully from their services, so we must be careful to preserve existing trees and plant new trees strategically to provide maximum resilience to climate change in the future.

Particulate Pollution

4.11. Trees also filter atmospheric particulate pollution (fine dusts and particles).

4.12. Fine particulate pollutants (often referred to as PM-10) can reach the lower regions of the respiratory tract and – where found in excessive concentrations - can lead to severe human health issues, both immediate and long term, especially on the young, elderly or those with asthma or respiratory other problems. The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010 enforce strict limits upon a wide range of pollutants.

4.13. Studies have shown that even low densities of trees surrounding pollution sources (e.g. industrial centres or roads) can prevent the dispersal of many pollutants.

4.14. Further information on particulate pollution can be found on the Council’s Environmental Health & Regulatory Services web pages.

Flood alleviation

4.15. Trees can make an important and positive contribution to flood control. Their canopies intercept heavy rain fall which reduces run off and soil erosion, whilst roots hold soil structures together and slowly absorb water, releasing back into the environment through transpiration.

4.16. Research by the University of Manchester has shown that by increasing tree canopy cover in urban areas by 10% reduces surface water run-off by almost 6%.

Landscape

4.17. Trees are the largest living organisms visible within the landscape and together with the topography of the land, buildings and infrastructure they

Using average tree canopy cover percentages for the southwest

(Trees in Town 2) Bournemouth’s urban forest stores nearly 13,000 tons of carbon annually, that’s the

equivalent of taking about 2,400 cars off the road every year

(Dorsey, 2013)

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help to define the character of the town and provide aesthetic value.

4.18. Many of the built conservation areas in Bournemouth are characterised by their extensive tree cover alongside attractive architecture. Many areas were planted extensively with pines which provide a link to the earliest days of the town.

4.19. Areas of woodland and tree cover, on both public and private land, break up the built environment, soften views and provide screening, shelter and areas for recreation.

Ecology & Biodiversity

4.20. Trees, both living and dead, form an essential part of our local ecosystems and support a huge range of species by providing food, shelter, roosts, nesting sites etc.

4.21. In the urban environment trees help provide a counterbalance to the man made environment and form an important link to nature for many people.

4.22. Bournemouth is fortunate to be located centrally in one of the most biodiverse regions of the UK (see map right). This is due to the network of diverse and rare habitats occurring in both Dorset and the New Forest, including the largest area of lowland heath in the UK and the largest concentration of valley mire in Europe. Due to this a huge number of Priority Action Species occur in the Bournemouth area (for example all six species of UK reptile can be found within Bournemouth), most frequently occurring in the designated protected areas shown on the following page. These natural sanctuaries are often linked by a matrix of vegetation running throughout the town, of which trees form a significant part.

4.23. Trees are a key component in maintaining and increasing the biodiversity of sites. Whether as sporadic specimens and stands within open habitats or in woodland environments. They provide shelter, nesting and food in streets and within residential settings and greatly enhance the range of habitats provided within formal parks and gardens.

Figure 1: UK Biodiversity Map,

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Figure 2: Statutory Land Based Conservation Designations (LNR, SSSI, SPA, SAC) Crown Copyright and database rights 2013. Ordnance Survey 100022861.

4.24. Native and naturalised trees are an important part of many of our locally distinct habitats and have the capacity to support a wide range of species.

4.25. Non indigenous and exotic tree species have also been shown to provide bio-diversity benefits. A diverse tree stock is important to ensure a robust tree population that has resistance and adaptability to potential climate change and increasing exposure to exotic pest and disease. Non indigenous tree species are often better suited to the harsh conditions of urban or coastal planting.

4.26. As trees age their biodiversity value often increases, as they are colonised by more species over time and develop more habitat niches.

4.27. Bournemouth is fortunate to retain a number of veteran trees, particularly oak trees in the northern parts of the borough. Veteran trees may also be referred to as notable or ancient; they form an important part of our cultural heritage and cannot be replaced for centuries once lost. Numerous species form specific relationships with veteran trees. They are invaluable and should be protected strongly. This view is backed up by the National planning Policy Framework.

Trees, Biodiversity & the Law

4.28. Individual trees of importance will be designated a Tree Preservation Order under the Town and Country Planning (Tree Preservation) (England) Regulations 2012. This will be done to preserve those trees of crucial importance to the character, environment or biodiversity of an area.

4.29. However trees are also protected by virtue of other forms of

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legislation that cover specific species, habitats and landscapes. This has been reinforced through the Conservation of Habitats and Species (Amendment) Regulations 2012. Also see Conservation Areas in Section 8.8.

4.30. For specific wildlife species, legislation can be found in Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) (as amended); the Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000; the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC, 2006); and by the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations (2010).

4.31. A useful example is that of UK bat species, of the 18 native species, 17 have been recorded in Dorset. Three quarters of British bat species are known to roost in trees. The law prohibits intentionally or recklessly disturbing a bat in its roost or deliberately disturbing a group of bats, causing damage or destroying a bat roosting place (even if bats are not occupying the roost at the time) or intentionally or recklessly obstructing access to a bat roost. Penalties on conviction include the maximum fine of

£5,000 per incident or per bat (with some roosts contain several hundred bats). Other protected species will make use of wooded environments, especially for protection during the winter.

4.32. Any habitats listed as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) (of which there are several within Bournemouth, see Figure 2) are protected under the Habitats Directive 1992, and are subject to strict regulation and monitoring.

Information Websites:

• Forestry Commission http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd-6abl5v

• Arboricultural Association http://www.trees.org.uk

• Royal Forestry Society http://www.rfs.org.uk

• Royal Horticultural Society http://www.rhs.org.uk

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5. Pests, Diseases & other Challenges:

5.1. Many trees have beneficial associations with fungi, invertebrates and other organisms. The presence of a particular tree species is often critical to the survival of particular species.

5.2. New pathogens are sometimes introduced from abroad, some with devastating consequences such as Dutch Elm disease (Ophiostroma nuvo ulmi) in the 1960’s & 1970’s. Outbreaks of new pest & diseases are increasing due to the global movement of goods and materials.

5.3. The Council uses industry guidance on best practice to manage and reduce the risks of introducing alien parasites, fungi and pathogens to its tree stock, this is often referred to as bio-security.

5.4. Urban trees are under pressure as the demand for residential and commercial developments increases. Road schemes and alterations can lead to tree loss and no scope to plant replacements.

5.5. People’s tolerance of proximity to trees can decrease because of expectations of light and freedom from shade and perceived danger.

5.6. Urban public open space is a precious commodity and some uses are not conducive with retaining present levels of tree cover or providing opportunities for new planting.

Objectives Relating to Pests, Diseases and Strees Pressures

5A Arboricultural teams to keep informed of potential new outbreaks through industry alerts, websites and arboricultural networks.

5B Council to follow industry guidelines

5C The Council will notify/educate staff, public and volunteers who come into contact with trees so they can report suspected cases and to Council. This may involve the use of publications and local media.

5E New road schemes and developments where tree removal is unavoidable will be required to demonstrate why existing trees could not be retained and will make provision within a scheme to mitigate losses with replacement and/or

Examples of introduced pestsand diseases to native trees:

• Phytophthora ramorum • Asian Longhorn Beetle • Oak Processionary Moth • Sudden Oak Decline • Ash Die-Back

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additional tree planting.

5F The Council’s pruning policy, TPO and Conservation Area regulations will be used to prevent unjustified removal of both public and private trees.

5G Proposed changes of use and development of public open space will consider the impact of removing existing tree stock and the loss of the capability to plant new trees and will make provision for mitigation where tree removal is shown to be beneficial.

6. Economic Value

6.1. There have been numerous reports and studies relating to the economic benefits of trees, the 2005 report by CABE Space ‘Does Money Grow on Trees?’ brought together findings both nationally and internationally which gave financial values to both green space and trees within urban environments. For example several studies have indicated that property values are higher in areas with mature trees or those overlooking well kept parks and open spaces.

6.2. Mature trees add value to new developments and to replace like with like would cost thousands of pounds or be unachievable outside the long term. These valuations can be calculated through modelling systems such as Ezytreev or iTree.

Wood Products

6.3. Trees provide a variety of products that can be useful. By researching existing technologies, being innovative and experimenting with uses for timber and other tree products there is considerable potential for the Council to increase efficiency and

Two separate studies have shown an identical increase in the range of housing values due to tree presence:

A 1km increase in the distance to the nearest forested area leads to an average 5.9% decrease in the market price of the dwelling. Dwellings with a view onto forests are on average 4.9% more expensive than dwellings with otherwise similar characteristics.

Tyrväinen & Miettinen 2000

A 3 to 5% increase in the sales prices of-single-family houses in Athens, Georgia, was associated with the presence of trees in their landscaping.

Anderson & Cordell 1985

This may be due to the fact that:

In the aesthetic quality of streetscapes the presence of trees is shown to be the single most important factor.

Todorova, Asakawa & Aikoh 2004

Other benefits to the landowner are also apparent:

Residents living in “greener” surroundings (higher street tree plantings around residential tower blocks) report lower levels of fear, fewer incivilities, and less aggressive and violent behaviour .

Kuo & Sullivan 2001

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income whilst reducing the borough’s carbon footprint.

6.4. Timber produced from tree works within the Borough is stockpiled and converted into wood fuel pellets which are used to provide fuel for the Kings Park Nursery biomass boiler, annually this produces on average over 175 cubic metres of wood fuel. The biomass boiler reduces need for a gas fired boiler, resulting in the replacement of a fossil fuel with a carbon neutral fuel source.

6.5. Wood chip is used as a mulch for shrub beds, reducing the use of herbicides and soil water loss, it may also be used as a natural surface for informal paths. Wherever possible wood chip is re-used on the site where it was produced, avoiding transport costs associated with transferring materials between sites or for disposal.

6.6. Timber may also be re-used to create seats, currently stored and seasoned for such uses.

6.7. Dead trees left standing and sections of timber provide a valuable habitat and can increase local bio-diversity. When it is safe and appropriate to do so, dead trees and fallen timber should be left in situ or managed to make it safe in situ. Pruning techniques can also be used to enhance wildlife benefits, such as leaving rough edges when removing limbs.

Objective for Wood Products

6A The Council will make every attempt to make best use of by-products from tree surgery operations in ways that are environmentally beneficial.

7. Health and Social Value

7.1. In terms of health, trees provide a range

Specific studies have shown: Short term exposure to nature does have an immediate salutary effect, with data showing a 7% higher happiness rating for those in natural areas compared to urban (calculated using a both a self scoring system of participants and outside analysis). Hartig et al 1991 However, this is not an isolated phenomenon as: A review of 31 studies found conclusively that natural landscapes have a more positive effect on health than urban landscapes, with measurable short term health benefits that combined lead to better long term health. Velarde 2007

Nature trail marker at Fisherman’s Walk

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of benefits.

7.2. As previously stated, they reduce airborne pollutants which, in 2002, were estimated to cause 1074 deaths and 830 hospital admissions per 100,000 population (Powe and Willis).

7.3. Trees improve quality of life and sense of wellbeing and have been found to reduce stress. For example, research has shown that a view with trees and nature can speed the recovery of hospital patients (Ulrich, 1984).

7.4. Generally people of all ages can derive great pleasure from trees whether it is through planting and growing them in their own gardens, appreciating the change of seasons with flowers foliage, fruit and bark, climbing them, walking through woods and natural landscapes as well as enjoying well planted and tended parks.

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8. Planning Control and Planning Policy in Relation to Trees

Tree Preservation Order (TPO’s)

8.1. The planting and preservation of trees for amenity has been a recognised part of planning law since the 1940s. Local Planning Authorities have powers to protect existing trees and secure replacement planting when protected trees are removed.

8.2. Central Government has provided guidance on the making of Tree Preservation Orders. This is currently set out in Planning Practice Guidance within the National Planning Policy Framework, a link can be found to this under TPO within the Glossary section.

8.3. Bournemouth has extensive coverage with TPOs and has an active programme of both making new TPOs and reviewing and replacing ones that are outdated. The Councils aim is to continue to review and increase Borough wide coverage of TPO’s

8.4. Usually TPOs are used to protect trees on private property, although they can be used on public property as well.

8.5. A TPO aims to prevent the unauthorised removal of trees and also helps

Figure 3: Map showing extent of TPO coverage in Bournemouth (correct as at December 2013). Crown copyright 2013. Ordnance Survey 100019829

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control any work carried out to them as well as securing replacement planting. The TPO is not intended to prevent reasonable management.

8.6. Permission can be granted with conditions, including replacement planting if a tree is felled. Consent can also be refused if a proposal to fell is assessed as not in the best interests of retaining the tree for the wider benefit of the community. Proposals for inappropriate pruning can also be refused.

8.7. TPOs are made for the following reasons:

• To protect trees in the interests of amenity • To protect new planting • In response to development pressures • When significant trees are thought to be under threat • Sale of Council housing stock under ‘Right to Buy’ • Sale or disposal of Council land for development • Transfer of Education sites away from Local Authority control to

Academy or Trust status.

Conservation Areas2

8.8. Bournemouth currently has 20 separate conservation areas. Conservation Areas are designated (under the Town and Country Planning Act 1990) to preserve or enhance the character of historic areas and provide protection to buildings and associated landscapes including trees.

8.9. Conservation area regulations protect trees above a specified size where the trees are not already covered by a TPO. Notification is required to undertake work to such trees and the Local Authority has the options of agreeing the proposed work or to make a new TPO.

8.10. Further guidance is contained in Planning Practice Guidance within the National Planning Policy Framework, a link can be found to this under TPO within the Glossary section.

Development Sites

8.11. One of the Local Planning Authorities’ aims in determining planning applications is to ensure that attractive and valuable landscape features, including high quality trees, are retained as part of any development proposal and that sufficient land is made available for new landscaping.

8.12. Developments within Bournemouth need to take account of policies developed for the Bournemouth District Wide Local Plan and Core Strategy (adopted October 2012).

2 Conservation areas are planning related designations to protect the built or natural environment from undesirable development or change (see Glossary).

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www.bournemouth.gov.uk/planningbuildings/planning/policy/local-plan/corestrategy/corestrategy.aspx

8.13. Urban development can have a significant negative impact on trees. A planning validation checklist has been developed to help minimise this, a link to the document can be found within the Glossary Section

8.14. Professional arboriculturists should be used to assess the impact of a proposed development on existing trees and will normally follow the technical guidance in BS5837:2012 ‘Trees in Relation to Demolition, Design and Construction.’ This process will identify significant trees and the constraints that they impose, which in turn will inform the design. The arboriculturist should also be able to provide details of protection and mitigation measures for the development.

Landscaping

8.15. Good landscaping can enhance any new development and is an important way of improving future tree stock, not only by increasing the numbers of trees but also the species mix and age range. Careful tree species selection can help a new development contribute to the

Figure 4: Map showing Bournemouth’s conservation areas (correct as at December 2013). Crown copyright 2013. Ordnance Survey 100019829

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preservation of the town’s landscape history and local biodiversity.

8.16. Where appropriate there should be an emphasis on planting native or naturalised species, as opposed to non-native ornamental trees, as this will have positive impact on biodiversity. Similarly there is a range of shrub species that can be selected for example for hedges, screen and structure planting.

8.17. The Council’s Residential Design Guide, adopted by the Council in 2008, includes a section on landscaping in the context of new development.

Objectives in relation to trees in private ownership

8A Educate and encourage tree owners to manage their trees and woodlands to the best industry standards. 8B Continue to make new TPOs and review old area orders - replacing them with selective TPOs.

8C Encourage appropriate tree planting to create wildlife corridors and link up isolated tree groups, creating larger areas of continuous tree cover and contributing to improved local biodiversity.

8D Increase the frequency of large tree species being incorporated within new development sites.

9. Trees on Council Owned Land:

9.1. Trees on Council owned land include those within parks, playing fields, woodlands, nature reserves, highway boundaries, cemeteries, churchyards, car parks, allotments, squares and public housing land.

9.2. With the exception of trees on land within Social Care, Planning & Transport and Education sites all trees on Council owned land within the borough are maintained by the Parks Arboriculture Team within Housing Parks & Bereavement Services, although the above mentioned exceptions may seek advice and services from the Planning Team.

9.3. Council owned trees make up approximately 60% of the tree cover of the Borough.3 They are subject to Council Standing Orders which impose some restrictions on works that can be carried out upon them.

9.4. Trees owned by the Council (as the local planning authority) can be the subject of TPO’s, although uncommonly, as the local authority will usually have good arboricultural management policies and procedures in place.

3 Trees in Town II, Dept. For Communities and Local Government 2008

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The Council applies the same level of care when managing its tree stock as it would expect of others in relation to local planning policy for trees.

9.5. Landscape and construction works on public land have the potential to damage adjacent trees. The Council will ensure that industry guidelines and best practice are employed by staff and contractors.

Public Woodlands

9.6. Bournemouth’s woodlands vary greatly in species make up and size. They provide a valuable amenity resource for recreation, alongside important habitats for wildlife.

9.7. Wooded sites of significant size or interest in Bournemouth include Muscliff Arboretum, Queens Park, Meyrick Park, Horseshoe Common, Strouden Woods, The Chines (Boscombe, Alum, Durley and Middle), Central & Upper Gardens, Kinson Common, Redhill Park & Common, Talbot Village (on private land), Pugs Hole and parts of Hengistbury Head. Most larger sites will have a management plan to direct operations and development.

9.8. Woodlands usually require active management to maintain public access, safety and perceptions of safety. Management is also used to control the growth of invasive or less desirable species to maintain a formal woodland / garden or to manage a nature reserve for the benefit of particular species.

9.9. Control of understorey such as holly, rhododendron and laurel allows more sunlight to reach the ground, providing opportunities for a wider range of small plants to grow, in turn supporting wider animal diversity. Creating glades and clearings allow young trees to self seed and grow ensuring the woodland persists (a process called succession). Leaving fallen trees, rotting stumps, log piles and standing dead wood in woodlands increases the diversity of fungi, whilst

Council Standing Order:

The removal of any publicly owned or maintained tree (other than for safety reasons) requires consent by the Council’s Planning Team. This constraint does not apply to highway trees.

The removal of up to six trees can be agreed under powers delegated to the Principal Landscape & Tree Officer. Above this number will be decided by the Planning Board.

Tree removal that is specified in a formally adopted site management plan relieves the requirements of the Standing Order because Councillors and relevant parties will have been given an opportunity to consider the proposal.

Guidance and Industry Best Practice

NJUG 10 - National Joint Utilities Guideline.

BS 5837 (2012) Trees in relation to demolition, design & construction

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providing an important habitat for insects and other small animals.

9.10. Woodlands can be our most bio diverse habitats; government guidelines aim for everyone to be within five kilometres of woodland they can visit. Bournemouth has sixteen sites registered with the Forestry Commission as accessible woodlands and meets this target throughout the borough.

9.11. Urban woodland contributes greatly to the quality of Bournemouth’s environment, with large areas of tree canopy close to the town centre being particularly effective at mitigating pollution and providing valuable shade.

9.12. The last woodland to be planted in Bournemouth was Redhill during the 1930’s, since this time some sites have become wooded through succession (such as Horseshoe Common and Strouden playing fields). The development of additional high quality amenity woodland would be of benefit to the town.

9.13. Many of Bournemouth’s woodlands are ‘even aged,’ meaning that the trees were all planted at a similar point in time. In order to plan for a healthier future, with a wide age structure within our woodlands, succession planning in the form of management plans for woodlands will be required. This may involve selective felling in some woods to create glades and clearing to allow new trees to establish.

Objectives in relation to trees in Council ownership

9A Develop a programme of appropriate woodland management for sites in public ownership in order to achieve a tree population with a diverse species and age range.

9B Increase native/naturalised planting.

9C Manage our trees in ways to enhance bio-diversity benefit.

9D Identify suitable locations to allow large tree species to develop to their full size.

9E Identify potential sites to create additional amenity woodland

9F Improve data collection for public trees from which targets can be set to increase canopy cover where appropriate.

9G Identify suitable locations for trees which produce edible fruits and nuts.

Publicly Owned Trees Are Often An Undervalued Asset.

A 2012 survey of the highway trees in East Avenue, Talbot Woods revealed there to be 277 Trees valued at over £6 Million.

(using the CAVAT system - Capital Asset Valuation of Amenity Trees)

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9H Diversify the structure and species composition of existing pine woodlands and plantations (e.g. Redhill, Queens Park) by selective felling and re-planting with native / naturalised tree species.

Highway or Street Trees

9.14. Street trees are planted in roadside verges, roundabouts and pavements. There are approximately 15,000 highway trees in Bournemouth, which make valuable contribution to the aesthetics and environment of the Town.

9.15. Bournemouth is almost unique in England as having mature pines as street trees. The overall highway tree stock has a diverse range of species and tree ages and includes new plantings, pollarded limes and veteran oaks.

9.16. Historically the programming of highway planting has been intermittent, resulting in some tree lined streets becoming sparsely populated or completely devoid of trees.

9.17. The maintenance of all highway trees is carried out through a programme of planned routine works by way of a fixed contract. There is a continuous programme of tree risk management inspections (TRMI).

9.18. Highway maintenance and the installation of services (such as cabling) have the potential to significantly damage trees, leading to their early removal. Having guidelines in place for contractors should reduce the incidence of early tree loss.

9.19. Conversely trees can cause damage to drains, underground pipes and cables and can lift pavements. As they grow they can also restrict access width along pavements. Careful choice of species and using appropriate planting techniques greatly reduces the chance of these issues arising.

9.20. Highway trees should not be removed to facilitate the construction of a vehicle access unless there is a good arboricultural reason to do so and the creation of a new planting pit is possible in close proximity.

9.21. Planting deciduous trees in public car parks has the benefit of reducing the heat island effect, keeping cars cool and breaking up a bland landscape.

Objectives in relation to street trees

9I The Council will ensure that guidelines and best practice are employed by our staff and any contractors working on the highway near to our own or privately owned trees.

Constraints to highway planting:

• Services – cables & pipes

• Footway width

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9J Locations will be identified where street trees may be introduced or re-introduced to improve streetscape and meet the wider aims of the strategy.

9K Remove and replace over-mature street tree stock.

Cemeteries & Churchyards: 9.22. There are four public cemeteries within Bournemouth, these are:

i. Wimborne Rd Cemetery - Opened 1878 ii. East Cemetery— Opened -1891 iii. North Cemetery—Opened -1927 iv. Kinson Cemetery—Opened -1936

9.23. All four sites sit within residential areas and contain important mature trees. The three older cemeteries all have more formal layouts with predominately introduced tree species. Kinson Cemetery contains several mature English oaks and is adjacent to Kinson Common SSSI, the trees within the cemetery compliment the biodiversity of the adjacent site.

9.24. Wimborne Road Cemetery is grade II listed,4 partly due to its distinctive structural planting, including an avenue of cedar, redwood and

4 Wimborne Road Cemetery is listed as a grade II listed garden in the national heritage register of parks and gardens, held by English Heritage.

In 1986 Wimborne Road cemetery was the first cemetery to be listed by English Heritage in the register of parks & gardens of special historic interest.

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Chile pine (monkey puzzle). The cedars have suffered considerably in recent years becoming decayed and potentially unstable. Elsewhere losses over the years have resulted in significant planting gaps. There is a need to address this issue and restore the avenue which may require removal of the remaining Cedars and replacing them. Due to the nature of the site this would be a complex and costly undertaking, potentially this could form part of a Heritage Lottery Fund bid to restore important features of the cemetery.

9.25. Replacement tree planting within cemeteries is complicated by the allocation of land for burials; however the Council is committed to plant replacement trees to maintain the quality and structure of these sites.

9.26. When a churchyard is closed for burials the Parish Church Council concerned may apply to the local authority to take over its maintenance under the Section 215 of the Local Government Act 1972.

9.27. Currently there are three such sites within the Borough where the Council maintains the grounds:

i. St Peters Church ii. St Clements Church iii. St James’ Church

Both sites contain mature trees and are within town centre locations, contributing to the local landscape and bio-diversity.

Objectives for Cemeteries & Churchyards

9LTo restore tree planting in line with original plans where possible e.g. the replacement of the cedar avenue Wimborne Road Cemetery.

Car Parks

9.28. There are numerous publicly owned car park sites across the Borough, many of which are planted with trees as screening or to break up the plain landscape. A number of town centre car parks have been identified for re-development, trees on development sites will be treated in the same way as private sites coming forward for development.

9.29. Trees within car parks are subject to regular risk management inspections (TRMI) and a programme of routine maintenance.

Housing Sites

9.30. Housing land includes communal grounds and gardens of council owned dwelling houses rented through the Housing Landlord Service. Trees within these grounds are maintained by Housing Parks Bereavement Services and are subject to routine risk management inspections.

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9.31. Trees within residential neighbourhoods, whether in gardens or in amenity spaces, greatly enhance the local environment and contribute to the overall tree cover of the Borough. Trees and hedgerows in such spaces can help to link isolated habitats by forming wildlife corridors. The planting of fruit trees may also be suited to residential neighbourhoods.

Social Service Sites

9.32. Numerous sites across the Borough some within mature landscaped grounds containing specimen trees. Social Services use the Parks Arboricultural team to manage trees on these sites.

Education Sites

9.33. There is a wide range of education sites both private and Local Authority owned, several of them are large sites which contain significant tree populations.

9.34. Numerous schools have become academies, with the land coming out of Local Authority control. When this happens Planning Services should assess the trees on site and serve a TPO if appropriate

9.35. Arboricultural advice and services are available to Education Departments from the Parks Arboricultural team and Planning Services Arboricultural officers

Objectives for Public Education Sites 9M Any school site passing out of local authority ownership should have a tree assessment through Planning Services. Appropriate trees should be designated with Tree Preservation Orders. 9N Bournemouth Council will encourage all schools to adopt management and maintenance practices in line with those practised by the Council.

10. Understanding Our Tree Population

10.1. An accurate survey of the trees in Bournemouth will inform us of tree canopy cover, condition, age and species mix; furthermore this information can be used to understand the present benefit and effectively plan future management, for example the rate of carbon capture (or sequestration) of our tree population can be accurately estimated. By better understanding the existing population we can prepare to pass on a healthy ‘urban forest’ to the next generation.

10.2. Currently Planning Services and Parks, Housing Landlord & Bereavement Services use the same tree management software. Planning Services plot private trees and produce their TPO’s. Housing, Parks &

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Bereavement Services plot, survey, produce and record work records for publicly owned trees. What this means is that a significant proportion of the privately owned trees and (once complete) nearly all publicly owned trees will be recorded.

10.3. Currently tree surveys capture the following data for each tree: species, age, location, size, condition and safe life expectancy.

10.4. Based on current rates of data input it is expected that an accurate picture of Bournemouth’s tree population will be available by 2020. By training more of Bournemouth’s volunteer tree warden team in the use of ezytreev the task could be accelerated.

10.5. Once a tree population has been estimated targets for planting can be set and performance measured against them, this will help with achieving a healthier species mix, age range or achieving canopy cover increase targets. The survey data will allow us to identify those neighbourhoods with low tree canopy cover, set targets and measure progress.

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11. Tree Work Operations:

Felling, Planting & After Care, Pruning

11.1. In an urban environment there are times when trees will require pruning or sometimes felling. They may come into conflict with adjacent properties, require pruning to clear site lines and create clearance above the highway or require works to remedy hazards.

11.2. The Council’s Tree Pruning & Felling Policy (Appendix 2) sets out the situations when pruning or felling is likely to be agreed and when it is not, it also sets out the minimum standards required for works to Council owned trees or private trees that are subject to statutory protection.

11.3. Some open habitats such as heath and acid grassland are protected and require periodic tree removal to prevent them becoming wooded. Trees may be removed from these sites as part of an adopted conservation management plan that has been developed with appropriate consultation.

11.4. Some Council tree stock (mostly street trees) is subject to a programme of regular maintenance. This includes cyclical works such as re-pollarding, removal of sucker growth and pruning to remove deadwood and maintain statutory height clearances.

11.5. Members of the public may request to have works carried out to publicly owned trees by submitting a Tree Work Request Form (TWRF). The request will be assessed by an arboricultural officer and a decision made based on the Council’s Pruning & Felling Policy.

11.6. If the Council decline to carry out works at the public expense, but do not object to proposals in principle, it is possible for the requester to pay for the Council’s tree surgery contractor to do the works subject to the conditions set out.

11.7. The Council will aim to inform interested parties (e.g. tree wardens or park friends groups) if significant trees are to be felled.

11.8. The TWRF & Guidance Notes can be accessed on line at www.bournemouth.gov.uk/LeisureCultureLibraries/Parks/Bournemouths-Parks/BournemouthsParks.aspx or requested by phone or e-mail by contacting the Parks office.

Planting:

11.9. The Council will aim to replace all trees that have to be removed whenever

Suggested replacement stocking levels:

• Street trees 1:1

• Commemorative 1:1

• Parks & Gardens 2:1

• Countryside sites 3:1

• Woodlands 4:1

• Plantations 7:1

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appropriate and possible to do so, using appropriate stocking levels. Where it is not be possible to plant in the same location or site an alternative site will be sought.

11.10. The Council will commit to manage the tree stock of the Borough to achieve an increase in canopy cover commensurate to best offset the predicted rise in urban temperatures.

11.11. On some sites, such as heathland SSSI’s additional tree planting will not be appropriate and periodic tree removal will be necessary to maintain an open heathland habitat.

11.12. The Council will plant a diverse range of tree species to create a robust tree stock which will have resistance to predicted climate change and exotic and indigenous pests and diseases.

11.13. The Council will work with a presumption to plant native or naturalised species whenever appropriate to the site (see Appendix 4).

11.14. Numerous roads and streets that were once tree lined have become almost devoid of tree cover. Where possible, feasible and economically viable, the Council will aim to repopulate these sites.

Objective relating to Tree Work Operations

11A The Council will work to make the Tree Work Request process fully electronic with an online application process in line with the Councils’ ‘digital by default’ programme.’

12. Tree Risk Management

12.1. The Council is obliged to take reasonable care to ensure that its trees do not present an unacceptable risk. The legislation covering this duty is covered primarily by the following two Acts:

• Occupiers Liability Act of 1957 & 1984

• The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

12.2. The function of these Acts places a duty on us to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, anyone entering our land or premises either by invitation or by permission (including employees) is not exposed to an unacceptable level of risk to their health and safety.

12.3. To enable us to meet this obligation a Tree Risk management Policy is in place for the trees under our stewardship. A full version of the Policy can be found from in Appendix 3

12.4. Below are the main points of the Policy:

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a. All trees will be routinely inspected by qualified staff.

b. The results of formal inspections will be recorded.

c. The frequency of inspection will be relevant to the factors and circumstances of the trees location, condition and management.

d. Additional staff and volunteer resources are utilised to provide additional monitoring and reporting of concerns.

e. Appropriate action will be undertaken to mitigate risks when they are identified.

f. An emergency plan is in place to respond in the most effective manner to a major storm event involving Borough wide multiple tree failures resulting in significant disruption to the function of the town, in particular the road network and passage of emergency vehicles.

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Appendix 1: Treescape Character Map for Bournemouth

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Tree Felling will be the last resort when

considering options to remedy situations.

Appendix 2: Tree Pruning & Felling Policy:

Although each situation will be considered on its individual merits the following will apply when determining whether to prune or fell a tree.

Trees may be felled or pruned in the following situations:

a. When a tree presents a hazard due to its poor form, condition or health.

b. When there is an actionable nuisance that cannot be remedied by other means

c. To clear site-lines and comply with statutory height limits above the highway.

d. Following a grant of consent for a planning application. Where such work has been agreed as part of the consent.

e. As part of an adopted site management plan.

f. Following a direct request from BT to clear phone lines

The Council will not normally agree to the felling or pruning of trees for the following reasons:

a. Because of falling leaves, fruit, seeds or honeydew.

b. Because of insects or bird habitation.

c. To create or reinstate views.

d. Because of shading or loss of light.

e. To relieve minor incursion.

f. To facilitate television/satellite reception.

g. To accommodate installation of photovoltaic cells (solar Panels).

h. To facilitate the creation of a vehicle access (drop curb)

i. If the works did not conform to good arboricultural practice or would be detrimental to the long term health or amenity value of the tree

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All works will be carried out to current British Standards for tree works and with due consideration to all relevant wildlife and environmental acts.

Common Law & Overhanging Vegetation:

For reasons of liability and protection of asset we will not allow private contractors access to our land to work on our trees (this includes climbing the tree). Residents can exercise their common law right to prune overhanging vegetation subject to the stated obligations, restrictions and duty of care.

Tree Work Request Form (TWRF):

Members of the public can request that we carry out works to our trees if they feel they are causing them problems by submitting a TWRF (see appendix). We will always carry out works to remedy genuine hazards and to comply with statutory duties.

In the case of discretionary works we will carry out works if the problem is acute and falls within the scope of the pruning policy subject to resources and workload. If we decline to carry out works but do not object to what has been requested then the requester can take the option to pay for the works themselves subject to the conditions: detailed fully on the following page.

Option for members of the public to pay for discretionary works:

In an effort to reduce the number of secondary complaints whilst not exposing the Council to additional liability the following option is offered:

Where an arboricultural officer considers a request for discretionary work and that request does not warrant our intervention, but does not object to the works, then the requester is given the option to pay for it themselves. The following conditions would apply:

• That the works would not be detrimental to the health, stability or aesthetic value of the tree.

Common Law:

• Lemon. vs Webb. (1894) _ Overhanging Vegetation

• Earl of Lonsdale. vs . Nelson (1823)

Fly Tipping:

• The Control of Pollution (Amendment) Act 1989,

• The Environment Protection Act 1990,

• The Town and Country Planning Act 1991

• The Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005 (the 2005 Act).

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• The extent and specifications of the work permitted will be set out by the Councils arboricultural officer and only those works carried out.

• The works could only be carried out by the Councils designated tree surgery contractor and to the arboricultural officers specification.

In this way the liability to the Council is managed and the appropriateness and quality of the tree works is guaranteed without the requirement for excessive monitoring by officers.

It is proposed that any works would be carried out under the current Arboricultural and Grounds Maintenance contract rates. These rates are extremely competitive and should be used so that there is not a perception that members of the public are being treated unfairly or to their detriment.

The Councils tree surgery contractor will invoice the requester and will levy a small administrative charge to be agreed with the Council and reviewed on an annual basis.

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Appendix 3: Tree Risk Management Policy

Introduction:

The Parks Arboricultural Team is part of the Parks section within the Housing Parks & Bereavement Services business unit. It is comprised of qualified arboriculturists and is responsible for the management of the Boroughs street trees and those within cemeteries, parks, gardens and all other public open spaces. In addition they provide arboricultural services to other business units including Planning, Transport and Regulation, Social Services and Schools. Trees within the curtilage of Council owned properties are managed by the Housing Grounds Maintenance team.

Bournemouth’s publicly owned tree stock numbers many tens of thousands. It is a diverse tree population which includes large mature Pine species lining busy roads, valuable veteran oaks, both broadleaf and conifer woodlands, avenues of pollarded street trees through to typical modern estate planting. The largely urban make up of the town means that a high percentage of trees are in close proximity to people, property and roads.

The Council value the importance of trees within our environment and are protective of them, however it also recognises the potential risks posed by trees and this policy sets out how these risks will be managed.

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Duty of care:

The Council is obliged to take reasonable care to ensure that its trees do not present an unacceptable risk. The legislation covering this duty is covered primarily by the following two Acts:

Occupiers Liability Act of 1957 & 1984

The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The function of these Acts places a duty on us to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, anyone entering our land or premises either by invitation or by permission (including employees) is not exposed to an unacceptable level of risk to their health and safety.

Scope:

The policy has been written by Bournemouth Parks primarily for trees under Parks stewardship; however it will be used when providing tree risk management services to others.

In order to manage the risk posed by trees it is recognised that a system of inspection is required. A component of this system needs to be a recorded tree assessment carried out by a suitably qualified person. Any remedial action identified must be carried out and a record made of when that was done.

Although an ideal tree risk management regime may be one of annual inspections, the Health & Safety Executive recognises that, when managing large tree populations, it is not practicable, possible and often necessary for all trees to be inspected at the same intervals (Management of the risk from falling trees –SIM 01/2007/05). Targeting available resources to the areas where the risk is greatest is an accepted approach. Other Local Authorities and public bodies such as the National Trust and Forestry Commission use this approach.

It is not possible for the Parks Arboricultural Team to carry out formal recorded inspections of all our trees on an annual basis, as such other available resources will be used to feed into a ‘pyramid of inspection’. Bournemouth Council employ a number of staff whose job role brings them into daily contact with the towns trees, often they are responsible for specific sites and so become very familiar with them and the features within them. In addition to this there are volunteer groups such as The Bournemouth Tree Wardens, they add extra ‘eyes on the ground’ and report any concerns to the Parks Arboricultural Team. Training is given to promote awareness of issues to be aware of such as annual fungal fruiting

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bodies. In this manner we ensure that our trees are regularly monitored in between the formal inspections by trained arboriculturalists.

To assist with the effective risk management of Bournemouth’s tree stock a recognised tree management software package is employed. The software used is ‘ezytreev’, an industry recognised software package used by many local authorities. Amongst other benefits this software provides an individual record of inspection, reports and tree surgery works for each tree, group or woodland on the system.

It is intended to record every tree under our stewardship onto this system and to this end a programme of surveying commenced in 2011.

Method: Public Open Spaces & Cemeteries.

Main sites are given a category of either A, B or C. Our aim will be to carry out inspections at the following intervals subject to resources:

A = One recorded inspection per 24 months

B = One recorded inspection per 36 months

C = One inspection per 60 months

Parks Operations staff and Countryside Rangers routinely monitor trees on their sites and relay any defects noted to the Parks Arboricutural team for further inspection.

Bournemouth Tree Wardens report defects noted within areas they regularly monitor and others.

Exist ing Relevant Council St af f Resources - 2014

Parks Arb or icu lt ural Team = 3 (cur ren t ly one Arb or icu lt ural Manager and t w o Arb o r icu lt ural Of f icers).

Nom inat ed Con t ract o r – Tree Surgery St af f = 5 (allocat ed t o Bournem out h Con t ract ).

Nom inat ed Con t ract o r = 12 (allocat ed t o Bournem out h Cont ract )

Parks Hor t icu lt ural St af f = 50

Housing Arb o r icu lt ural & Hor t icu lt ural st af f = 10

Bereavem ent Services Hor t icu lt ural st af f = 8

Coun t r ysid e Rangers = 6

Com m un it y Parks Of f icers = 4

Techn ical Services = 4 (one m anager and t h ree Highw ays insp ect o rs q ualif ied t o Cit y & Guild s un it s 301 & 311 saf et y insp ect ion o f t he Highw ay).

Bournem out h Vo lun t eer Tree Ward ens = 5

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Arboricultural and Horticultural staff belonging to the nominated contractor operating full time within the Borough will report defects noted and feed information into the electronic management system as works are completed.

Method: Street Trees:

Technical Services ‘Code of Practice for Highways Inspections includes a hierarchy for carriage way inspections as follows:

Hierarchy Best Value Code Inspections per annum

Classified – Principal Roads

Class 2 Strategic Routes

Class 3a Main Distributors

Class 3b Secondary Distributors

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12

12

Classified – Non Principal Roads

Class 3b Secondary Distributors 12

Unclassified Roads

Class 4 Link Roads

Class 4b Local Access Roads

4

1

Carriageway Inspections include the trees on them and are carried out by Highways Inspectors who have a level 1 tree inspection qualification (Lantra - Basic Tree Inspection), any defects noted are reported to the Parks Arboricultural Team for further inspection.

As part of the Councils Arboricultural & Grounds Maintenance contract routine works such as re-pollarding and de-suckering is carried out in addition to reactive pruning. Such works are carried out by qualified arborists and any defects noted are reported to the Parks Arboricultural team for further inspection.

Park Operations and TLG horticultural staff undertaking grounds maintenance works on the highway will report defects noted to the Parks Arboricultural team for further inspection.

The Parks Arboricultural team are undertaking a programme to survey all street trees and enter them onto the electronic tree management system. During this survey the trees condition is assessed and any required remedial works recorded and arranged.

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Private trees adjacent to the highway that appear, due to their condition, to constitute a threat to the highway will be referred to Technical Services who have powers to enforce works to make the tree safe. Due diligence will be observed as to the protected status of the tree and where this is the case the Arboricultural Section in Planning Services will be notified.

Method: Housing Trees

A programme of surveying will be used to enter trees located within the curtilage of Council owned housing stock onto the Ezytreev system.

Housing grounds maintenance monitor those trees and report any concerns to the Housing Grounds Maintenance Manager for further inspection.

There is a call centre manned twenty four hours a day that residents can report concerns regarding the safety of trees within these sites.

Method: Private Trees

The Planning, Landscape and Arboricultural Team are part of the Design and Heritage Team within the Planning, Transport and Regulation business unit. It is comprised of three qualified arboriculturists who are responsible for trees located on private land throughout the Borough.

If they are notified or become aware of a dangerous tree or a potentially dangerous tree located on privately owned land they will make a prompt inspection of the tree and contact the tree owner to advise on action required to make the tree safe. The tree owner would be expected to employ a private tree surgeon to undertake these works. If the owner of the tree cannot be contacted and the tree concerned has the potential to cause injury or damage to property, the Councils preferred arboricultural contractor will be instructed to make the tree safe and charge the tree owner for the works undertaken. This is mainly used when the tree poses a danger to the public highway.

If the tree that was lost was a protected specimen replacement planting will be pursued and where the tree was not a protected specimen the Council would encourage the planting of a new tree.

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Emergency procedure: To ensure that potentially dangerous tree related issues are dealt with promptly the following procedures are in place:

In normal office hours:

Bournemouth Council staff will contact the Parks Arboricutural team directly who will assess the situation and either attend the incident or arrange the necessary response.

Staff who are likely to take calls from members of the public are trained to determine if the report is a genuine emergency which requires an immediate response, if so they will speak to one of the Parks Arboricultural Team directly (warm handover). In the event that contact cannot be made they will resort to a list of other officers who will attend.

Out of hours:

Duty officers provide cover for the borough twenty four hours a day. These include the Parks Patrol Team, Highways Duty Officers and the Parks Weekend Duty Manager.

The Council’s call centre is manned full time and as such provides an emergency contact service.

The Arboriculture and Grounds Maintenance contract with the nominated contractor provides a twenty four hour emergency tree surgery response facility. A duty officer can be contacted via the main telephone number and will attend the site to assess the situation within one hour of the call. Following which they will deploy the necessary resources to deal with the incident.

In the event of a major event the Parks Arboricultural team are contactable by phone and will attend incidents.

Force Majeure:

Should a major weather event occur resulting in Borough wide multiple large tree failures similar to 1987, 1990 and 2014 the following will apply:

All available arboricultural officers and other nominated officers will assemble at East Cemetery Lodge Gloucester road and from there will carry out assessments of

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tree situations and direct and supervise staff as directed.

The Parks Operations Manager will assemble at East Cemetery Lodge, Gloucester road in order to coordinate the deployment of non chain saw trained staff as required.

All in house staff trained in the use of chainsaws will assemble at Kings Park Depot, Gloucester road.

All tractor drivers will assemble at Kings Park Depot.

Partnership arboricultural staff (assigned to the Bournemouth contract) and any additional and available trained staff will assemble at Kings Park Depot.

In the event that East Cemetery Lodge and Kings Park Depot are inaccessible the alternative assembly point will be Queens Park Pavilion Car Park.

Less qualified staff may be teamed up with qualified tree surgeons to create a greater number of teams able to deal with technically complicated issues.

Resources will be deployed in response to directions from the emergency committee. A likely hierarchy would be:

• Clearing emergency routes.

• Clearing major routes.

• Incidents posing an imminent threat.

• Clearing minor routes.

• Trees presenting a potential threat to highways.

• Trees causing damage to buildings or preventing access to properties.

• Clear and make safe high use public open spaces such as Lower Gardens.

• Some areas that are less well used may be temporarily closed until recourses are available.

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Appendix 4: Tree species generally considered to be native / naturalised:

Alder (Alnus glutinosa) Apple-Crab- (Malus sylvestris) Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) Birch –Silver- Betula pendula Birch-Downy- Betula pubescens Beech –Fagus sylvatica Cherry-Wild- Prunus avium Cherry –Bird- Prunus padus Elm –Wych –Ulmus glabra Elm English—Ulmus procera Hawthorn –Common- Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn –Midland- Crataegus laevigata Hazel – Corylus avellana Hornbeam – Carpinus betulus Holly - Ilex aquifolium Holm oak – Quercis ilex* Horse Chestnut – Aesculus hippocastanum Juniper – Juniperus communis Lime – Small Leaved – Tilia cordata Lime – Large leaved – Tilia platyphyllos Maple – Field – Acer campestre Norway Maple – Acer platanoides Oak –English- Quercus robur Oak –Sessile- Quercus petraea Pine –Scots- Pinus sylvestris Poplar –Aspen- Populus tremula Poplar –Black- Populus nigra Rowan – Sorbus aucuparia Sweet Chestnut – Castanea sativa Sycamore – Acer pseudoplatanus * Turkey Oak – Quercus cerris Whitebeam – Sorbus aria Willow – Bay-Salix pentandra Willow-Crack- Salix fragilis Goat Willow – Salix caprea Willow White- Salix alba White Poplar – Populus alba* Yew – Taxus baccata

*measures will be used to control dominance and it may be excluded completely from specific sites.

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Appendix 5: Glossary of Terms Arboriculture – the cultivation of trees and shrubs Biodiversity – meaning biological diversity is a term used to describe the degree of variation of life forms found within ecological systems, or the variety of living species found within a given area. Bio-security Conservation Area - an area of notable environmental or historical interest or importance which is protected by law against undesirable changes. Ecosystem Services – benefits people obtain from ecosystems. These include provisioning, regulating, cultural and supporting services (Hassan, Scholes and Ash, 2005; Dorset LNP, 2014) Local Nature Partnership - The LNP is a voluntary board established in order to develop a vision for the local environment, champion its interests and better integrate environmental objectives with social and economic goals, working closely with the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and Health and Wellbeing Board. Planning Validation Checklist – A local guidance document to assist applicants when submitting planning applications, including necessary checks and assessments relating to impact on trees. This can be found by following the link below http://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/PlanningBuildings/Planning/Apply/Validation-Checklists/Validation-Guidance.pdf PM-10 Airborne suspended particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. These may be naturally occurring or a bi-product of industrial activity Sustainability – a concept which takes into account all elements of the environment, economy and society, enabling systems to maintain their own ongoing viability. TPO – Tree Preservation Order. Planning Practice Guidance on Tree Preservation Orders may be found within the National Planning Policy Framework area of the Planning Portal wbsite.. http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/tree-preservation-orders/ Transpiration The process of water movement through a plant and its evaporation from aerial parts, such as from leaves but also from stems and flowers.

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Urban Forest - a collection of trees that grow within a city or town. The term Urban Forestry refers to managing all the trees within a town or city landscape from an integrative perspective, considering individual green space elements as interlinked and part of a larger environ.

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References:

Air Quality Standards, Available at URL: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/1001/contents/made Anderson, L. M., & Cordell, H. K. (1985). Residential property values improved by landscaping with trees. Southern Journal of Applied Forestry, 9(3), 162-166 . Available at URL: http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/saf/sjaf/1985/00000009/00000003/art00012 Cannell, M. G. R., Milne, R., Hargreaves, K. J., Brown, T. A. W., Cruickshank, M. M., Bradley, R. I., ... & Subak, S. (1999). National inventories of terrestrial carbon sources and sinks: the UK experience. Climatic Change, 42(3), 505-530. Available at URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749101002147 Climate change act 2008, Available at URL: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/27/contents Dewar, R.C. 1991. Analytical model of carbon storage in the trees, soils and wood products of managed forests. Tree Physiol. 8:239-258.

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