Tree Pruning

Guidance for Applications

For information prior to making an application please contact the Arborist on 01329 236100 Extension 2443, 01329 821443 (Fax) or e-mail conservation@fareham.gov.uk

Trees should not be pruned if it is not necessary to do so since any cutting can weaken a tree and each pruning wound exposes vulnerable tissues, which may be invaded by wood decaying organisms. Pruning of a healthy tree usually results in the production of vigorous new growth which depletes the tree's food reserves. In certain species the harder the pruning then the more vigorous the new growth, commonly referred to as epicormic growth, will be. Older trees do not tolerate pruning as well as younger ones and substantial pruning can be very damaging, particularly in species which are not naturally tolerant of cutting.

Consent will not be given to prune a tree that has a high amenity value when there is no justification for the work. Pruning should be undertaken for sound Arboricultural management reasons and should not be detrimental to the health, form and character of the tree. Work will also be resisted if the tree has been pruned within the previous 3 years, unless there are special circumstances agreed by the Council's Arborist. Each application will be viewed carefully and judged on its merits.

When making an application to carry out works to a protected tree(s) it is important to provide specific details of the type and extent of pruning you are intending to undertake.

Reasons why trees may require pruning:

• Trees in physical contact with buildings, fences and other infrastructure.
• Trees growing close to or across a neighbour's boundary.
• Trees with branches that obstruct or overhang the public highway or a public right of way. (Contact your local Highway Authority for details on height clearances above carriageways)
• Trees causing a 'legal' nuisance to an adjoining property.
• Large trees in small gardens which prevent the reasonable enjoyment of the property.
• Trees obscuring sightlines, access, signage and CCTV surveillance equipment.
• Young trees which require formative pruning to improve crown shape and branch structure.
• Removal of hazards such as dead or diseased material, broken branches and storm damage to make a tree safe, or to re-shape and balance the crown.
• Thinning, coppicing and other similar operations being undertaken as part of an approved management plan to maintain woodland and promote good Sylvicultural or Arboricultural practice.

Tree Pruning - Good Arboricultural Practice Generally most trees that need to be pruned will require one, or a combination of the following pruning techniques. Pruning should aim to remove no more than 15-20% of the crown at any one time. Pruning aims to develop a strong and well balanced branch structure.	The Canopy or Crown
			Crown Spread

Crown Thinning This is the removal of a small portion of the secondary and small live branches throughout the crown. Thinning should produce a uniform density of foliage around an evenly spaced branch structure and reduces the density of the crown without altering the shape and form of the tree. Thinning allows more light to pass through the crown, reduces wind resistance and can lessen the weight of heavy branches. Crown thinning includes crown cleaning - the removal of dead, dying, diseased, crossing, crowded and weakly attached branches of low vigour.

Crown Lifting This is the removal of the lowest branches and preparing of lower branches for future removal. Crown lifting should avoid creating large wounds on the main trunk of older trees as these may take many years to heal. To avoid lack of balance after crown lifting the crown should be at least 2/3 of the total height of the tree. Useful for allowing more light into a property. Provides clearance above roads, footpaths and smaller out buildings, such as sheds and garages.

Crown Reduction This is the reduction of the crown of a tree, or the tree itself, whilst maintaining its natural shape and form as far as practicable. The ends of the branches should be removed back to a suitable growing point (ie internal lateral branches) and the diameter of the remaining branch should be at least 1/3 of the diameter of the branch that is removed. Ideal for preventing branches contacting buildings, roofs and gutters. Removal of branches obstructing street lighting, overhead cables, signs and other infrastructure.

Remember - pruning should be avoided during Spring and Autumn time when trees are moving and storing vital energy reserves throughout the tree.