Expert Witness & Public Appearance
If we give advice, we stand by it.
Trees are emotive, and they have always attracted strong public interest. We believe trees should be integral to the design process, and we are confident in explaining clear, evidence-based arboricultural decision-making.
Whether the matter concerns a high-profile tree that has appeared in the broadsheets and attracted celebrity endorsement, or a more local issue, our approach is the same: we give advice that is robust, proportionate and capable of being defended.
Appeal-ready advice
We work to an appeal-ready standard. That means being confident in our professional opinion, anticipating potential challenges and thinking carefully through the reasoning behind every recommendation. For that reason, we do not undertake work that we would be unwilling to defend at appeal.
Public Inquiry & Hearings
We have given expert witness evidence at numerous planning inquiries and hearings. We are confident in our professional opinion, thorough in our preparation and clear in explaining the reasoning behind our advice.
A clear, reasonable approach
Our experience shows that even strong objectors can be reassured when they see that tree-related issues have been properly considered and that the best practicable outcome has been pursued. We aim to come across as reasonable, forward-thinking and evidence-led, and that approach shapes both our management of trees and the way they are presented in the planning process.
Written Representations
Our Written Representation service provides a comprehensive and clear assessment of the impact of development proposals on existing trees. Often responding to comments raised during determination, we craft comprehensive reports that detail how significant effects have been avoided and whether trees will be affected by development, or changes to land use.
These representations include details of the iterative process, deliverable strategies to mitigate for unavoidable effects and expert recommendations on tree protection measures, underpinned by compliance with local planning policies.
Public Consultation
Nothing is more satisfying than having the opportunity to discuss with an engaged audience what we believe.
Our attendance at Public Consultations ensures that interested parties are informed of the systematic methods to assessment and design responses. Having taken an engaged approach to design, our team have intimate knowledge of the work that has been undertaken to avoid effects and ensuring that unavoidable impacts are either mitigable or can be compensated for. This integral engagement leads to professional and informative conversations, however adamant other parties are of their position at the outset.
