Decision details

The current tree risk management procedure only considers trees on or near highways land and therefore did not cover trees on other county council land across the estate. The revised tree risk management procedure relates to all trees which are on land owned by or vested in the county council. The revised procedure sets out proposed inspection frequencies for all trees which is determined by risk zone and occupancy factors.

Ensuring that risk mitigation works are carried out within the specified time frame determined by the risk posed by the defects is an area which requires close monitoring. This procedure sets out such time frames and provides protocols for bringing in additional resources to manage the risk.

Currently there are no complete records regarding which sites or vehicular highways have trees on them which the county council is responsible or liable for; or how many trees are owned by the county council, or how many are removed each year. The procedure details the tree screening procedures and the inventory and record management to ensure that accurate records are produced and maintained for trees the county council stocks.

The new procedure also includes basic levels of training and adverse weather protocols and requirements.

The Cabinet approved the recommendation(s) as set out in the report.