Tree Survey for Planning – Leeds West Park Centre

Do You Need a Tree Survey for Planning in Leeds?

Yes – a BS5837 tree survey is essential when applying for planning permission in Leeds, particularly on sites with mature or protected trees.

Read on to see how our work supported a successful planning application and sensitive site design in West Yorkshire.

Project Overview: Redevelopment of the Former West Park Centre

AWA Tree Consultants were appointed to carry out a BS5837 tree survey at the former West Park Centre on the eastern side of Spen Lane, Leeds. The site — a mix of hard surfacing and mature boundary planting — was earmarked for 50 new dwellings with associated access.

While the central area of the site was relatively clear, the boundaries and several internal areas included mature trees, many of which were protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). The north-east corner also bordered a conservation area, with trees and hedges noted for their contribution to the local character.

To get a visual sense of the development, check out this short video overview from the house builder, showing the West Park Centre site and progress:

How Our Tree Survey Supported Planning

Our BS5837 tree survey was central to:

• Identifying high-value trees to be retained
• Creating a detailed tree constraints plan to guide site layout
• Supporting mitigation strategies for lower value or compromised trees

We assessed tree species, health, condition, and landscape contribution — allowing the development team to maximise the site’s potential while preserving key green infrastructure.

Key Survey Insights

✅ Species Diversity: A broad mix of native and ornamental trees, primarily broad-leaved species
✅ Mature Ash and Oak: Large, healthy specimens with strong visual amenity value
✅ Other Notable Trees: Beech and Oak with good structure and long-term prospects
✅ Lower Value Trees: Identified for removal or pruning based on condition or limited contribution

Our assessment also noted trees that required work independent of development — such as pruning or removal due to natural decline.

Outcome: Retention, Landscape Quality, and Planning Success

Although some tree removal was proposed, our arboricultural impact assessment helped ensure:

• The majority of trees were retained, especially along boundaries
• New public open space incorporated retained trees into a landscape-led layout
• The scheme maintained and reinforced local landscape character

Importantly, the TPO’d trees were used as structural green features — forming a network of mature open spaces wrapping around housing blocks.

Planning Authority Feedback

Leeds City Council approved the development, acknowledging the sensitive layout and positive response to tree constraints. They concluded that the proposal would integrate well into the surrounding area, thanks to:

• High retention rates of mature trees
• A strong landscape framework
• A commitment to high-quality public space design

Final Thoughts

AWA Tree Consultants regularly provide tree surveys for planning in Leeds, West Yorkshire, and beyond. Our reports are clear, BS5837-compliant, and focused on gaining timely planning consent for your project.

👉 Learn more about our BS5837 tree surveys
👉 Contact our team for expert support on your development