Protected Trees
Review of Tree Preservation Orders
The Council has a number of older TPOs, some of which date back to the 1950s.
In many situations the use of the land has changed because new development has taken place and the TPO map has little relationship to a modern map of the area.
Some trees standing at the time the TPO was made have been lost and others may no longer provide sufficient benefit to merit protection. Conversely new trees that have grown up over time now merit protection and are not covered by an existing order.
The Council is seeking to ensure that all its TPOs are appropriate, effective, up to date and enforceable. To achieve this, the Council will continue to prioritize the review process by concentrating first on those orders that:
- were made before 1974
- do not have ‘wilful destruction or damage’ as an offence;
- have incorrect group definitions; and
- have area designations.
The review of existing TPOs is a major project and the Council will be engaging consultants during the spring to assist in the resurvey of the remaining old Hampshire Area orders. We have also taken the opportunity to computerize the Council’s TPO records, which are now held on a database and linked to an overlay (electronic map) on the Council’s Geographic Information System (GIS). This will improve the efficiency of the service we provide and in the long term will reduce the amount of paperwork involved. It will also help to provide new ways for residents to access records of Tree Preservation Orders in the future, using the internet.
The Council will continue to review its existing Tree Preservation Orders to ensure that they all remain appropriate, effective and enforceable.
The Council has prepared a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the TPO Review that you may find helpful:
- Why is the Council reviewing its TPOs?
- Are there any other reasons for the review?
- Is Fareham the only Council reviewing its TPOs?
- Are all the TPOs in the Borough being reviewed?
- Who is carrying out the Review of TPOs?
- What is involved in the Review?
- How will this affect the existing TPO on my trees?
- Is it necessary for somebody to enter my garden to inspect my trees?
- Why is it necessary to fix numbered tags to some of the trees?
- What can I do if I am unhappy with the outcome of the Review?
- Is there anything I need to do?
- How can I find out more?
If you would like any further information please contact the Arborist within the Department of Planning and Transportation on Tel: 01329 236100 or e-mail conservation@fareham.gov.uk.
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