Trees, Science and Opinion
8th April 2026
At AWA Tree Consultants, we spend a lot of time helping clients navigate difficult planning situations, particularly where trees are seen as a block to development rather than part of a solution. Our recent appeal success in Wetherby Leeds is a good example of how clear, evidence-based arboricultural advice can unlock development, even in the face of strong Local Authority resistance. The Situation A proposed development at the former Mercure Hotel site, comprising a Lidl foodstore and care home, was […]
3rd June 2025
The Government’s review of Biodiversity Net Gain for small housebuilders highlights the clash between metrics and reality. Learn how AWA Trees helps navigate tree surveys for planning while supporting biodiversity and sustainable development.
3rd June 2025
3rd June 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Sheffield Tree Survey Reports for Planning Applications Sheffield is known for being one of the greenest and most wooded cities in Europe and the greenest city in Britain. The city has an estimated 4.5 million trees, which represent over half of all the tree cover in Sheffield’s Urban and Rural Forests. The city’s trees and woodlands are considered one of its finest natural resources, providing a wide range of important benefits for people, making the city […]
14th May 2025
A reflective walk through Calke Abbey’s ancient parkland with the Ancient Tree Forum, exploring how deliberate neglect, quiet resilience, and shared curiosity shape one of England’s most remarkable treescapes
6th May 2025
When a 500-year-old oak tree was felled in a matter of hours outside a Toby Carvery in Enfield, the public reaction was swift and emotional. But behind the outrage lies a deeper issue: a tree protection system that too often fails the very trees it was designed to safeguard. I
3rd February 2025
The debate around planning reform and environmental regulations is heating up, but beyond the political noise lies an opportunity to create a more efficient, proportionate approach to tree surveys for planning. At AWA, we believe that excessive arboricultural assessments often slow down projects unnecessarily—especially when dealing with low-value trees. A smarter system would focus expert input where it truly matters, ensuring meaningful tree protection without unnecessary delays. Read more on how a streamlined approach could benefit both development and the environment.
22nd January 2025
Are Developers and Councils Meeting Tree Commitments? At AWA Trees, our focus is on tree surveys for planning. This work raises important questions about the priority of trees in relation to new developments.
17th January 2025
Could coppicing be used more in urban forestry? This ancient practice, championed by arboriculturists, enhances biodiversity, supports tree preservation, and offers cost-effective solutions for sustainable urban landscapes.
13th September 2024
The long-awaited draft revision of BS5837: Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition, and Construction – Code of Practice has finally arrived. It represents the most significant update to the British Standard since the last revision in 2012. For tree consultants, urban planners, and developers, this revision could have a profound impact on how trees are integrated into design and construction projects. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes, what they mean for trees and planning, and how you can, and […]