How and why we prune trees
Find out how we maintain a healthy tree population and minimise hazards through our inspection and pruning programme.
Our duty of care
We have a duty of care to inspect our tree stock. This is completed by a qualified arboricultural officer on a biannual basis.
The officer carries out a detailed inspection of each tree, looking for any indication that the tree, or part of the tree, may be under stress.
Inspections
Inspections are carried out in two phases.
Routine
Routine inspections take place every 4 years.
If necessary, and if funding is available, a qualified arborist will recommend pruning works based on the tree's impact on the surrounding built environment.
Pruning work will be carried out as soon after the inspection as possible, but it can take up to 12 months.
Interim
Interim inspections take place 2 years between routine inspections. In these inspections, a qualified arborist will only identify dead, dying or dangerous trees that require urgent work.
Why we prune
Pruning works are recommended to remove or minimise hazards and associated problems.
We consider the significance of any major defects in relation to site usage and overall tree health.
We recommend pruning works with the overall aim of establishing a sustainable tree population that:
- reflects the diverse interests and values we place on trees
- provide an overall benefit to society