As part of the commitment to sustainable and responsible development, a comprehensive arboricultural assessment is being completed undertaken for the site. This assessment has been carried out in accordance with relevant Standards, providing a robust understanding of the existing trees and green infrastructure across the site.

The initial survey identified a range of arboricultural features, including native groups of trees. These were assessed as falling within Categories A to U, representing a variety from moderate quality trees worthy of retention to those considered unsuitable for long-term retention. Importantly, no ancient trees, veteran trees, or areas of ancient woodland were identified within the site.

The findings of the site survey will inform the evolution of the proposed layout, ensuring that trees are a key consideration throughout the design process. A supporting desk-based review has also confirmed that there are no statutory tree protections affecting the site, such as Tree Preservation Orders or Conservation Area designations.

The accompanying Tree Impact Plan demonstrates that the vast majority of existing trees and hedgerows can be retained and incorporated into the development. Existing tree belts, particularly along the site boundaries, will form an integral part of the landscape structure and will be safeguarded within areas of public open space. These features will also be enhanced through additional native planting to strengthen the site’s green network.

Trees of higher value have been identified within the western and south-eastern parts of the site, and these will be retained as a key component of the proposed landscaping. The location of the proposed access has been carefully considered and positioned centrally to maximise the retention of these important features. Where limited tree removal is necessary to facilitate access, this will be appropriately mitigated through the planting of new trees, ensuring no overall loss in arboricultural value and contributing to the long-term enhancement of the site’s green infrastructure.