Introduction
This policy sets out South Ribble Borough Council’s (SRBC) approach to the management of trees and woodlands on Council owned land. It is intended to act as a point of reference for the public, officers, elected members and professionals to ensure a clear, consistent and structured approach to the management of the borough’s trees.
As a Council we recognise the importance of trees in combating air pollution through the sequestering of CO2 and other pollutants and the production of oxygen, we are committed to improving the air quality of our residents and will replace trees on a two planted for each one removed basis. Trees will be planted in line with “The Right Place, Right Tree” policy which will filter out trees that would otherwise grow too big for certain locations.
We have also committed to planting as minimum 110,000 new trees over the next four years, one for each of our residents.
South Ribble Borough Council places a high value on our district wide tree cover and recognises that trees and woodlands are of vital importance in maintaining and improving the quality of life of those who live, visit and work in the borough. Trees are one of the most obvious natural assets, by virtue of their sheer size and prominence. It is our duty to ensure that future generations are able to enjoy the many benefits that our trees bring to the environment.
This policy is intended to act as a point of reference for members of the public, Councillors, officers and professionals to establish a clear and consistent approach to issues affecting trees on Council owned land or under the control of the council.
Trees are a potential liability and SRBC has a duty of care to ensure that all of the trees on its land are kept in an acceptable condition and do not put persons and property at a level of risk which would be deemed unreasonable.
The local district is under the control of two different authorities – South Ribble Borough Council and Lancashire County Council. Each organisation has respective responsibilities in relation to the management of buildings, land, trees, open spaces and public highways. In relation to trees Lancashire County Council manage the majority of trees on and in the adopted highway, this policy does not apply to these trees.