PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT

Feasibility Assessments

A BS:5837:2012 compliant tree survey is the initial step for assessing trees in relation to development and planning. Information gathered during the initial survey is used to create a Tree Constraints Plan and provide developers with initial advice in regards to arboricultural conflicts.

After an initial tree survey, developers might consider conducting a feasibility study to assess the likelihood of obtaining planning permission and to inform their purchasing decision. This study will offer a thorough assessment of the site's development potential, including a tree valuation and an estimate of the potential costs for necessary tree work, whether for preservation or safety. Urban Tree Management will carry out this study, enabling the creation of a realistic site plan that optimizes space utilization without the need to remove a significant number of trees, thereby enhancing the prospects of securing planning permission on the first attempt without onerous conditions. Understanding the size and location of trees will enable architects to integrate elements such as tree shade, locations for overhead and underground services, and other tree-related constraints into their designs.

The feasibility survey will measure tree heights, root protection areas, and crown spreads. Tree crown spreads will be gauged at the four cardinal points for precise plotting on a tree constraints plan. The survey will also offer advice on necessary health and safety tree work and classify trees as A, B, C, or R following British Standard BS5837:2012, indicating the amenity value of the trees and identifying those most deserving of retention and protection during development.

Detailed Aerial Surveys

Drone technology is revolutionizing the way we work, opening up new opportunities that once belonged in the realm of science fiction. The most apparent use for drones is in development sites, yet as landowners are increasingly urged to improve their environmental assets, they require a swift and cost-effective method to identify these opportunities.

Drones are invaluable during feasibility assessments, capturing site details that aid in conceptual design. Survey outputs can include long-distance images to contextualize a site within its broader landscape, orthorectified (high-resolution 2D) images, 3D models in point cloud or triangle mesh formats, video footage, or a combination thereof. The software and algorithms transforming photographic images into meaningful and usable data are continually advancing, ensuring that the potential of drones remains extensive and incredibly promising.