Woking Borough Council
Civic OfficesGloucester SquareWokingSurreyGU21 6YL
Telephone: 01483 755855
The review of Tree Preservation Orders in Woking
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- Why is the Council reviewing its TPOs?
- Is Woking 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?
- How can I find out more?
On 1 October 2008 the new TPO regulations came into force. These introduce a standard application form for work to protected trees and a fast track appeals system.
Why is the Council reviewing its TPOs?
There are over 5,000 properties in the Borough affected by TPOs. Some of these TPOs are now over forty years old and are no-longer protecting the best quality trees. Many of these older TPOs apply a 'blanket' protection to all the trees within a defined area, regardless of their quality. This means it is often necessary for residents to apply to the Council for consent to prune or remove trees that are not of high amenity value. The purpose of this review is to ensure the Borough's TPOs are brought up to date, protecting the very best trees, and lifting restrictions from trees that do not merit special protection.
Is Woking the only Council reviewing its TPOs?
No. All local Councils have been asked by the government to review TPOs to ensure they remain up to date.
Are all the TPOs in the Borough being reviewed?
No. There are over 600 TPOs in the Borough, many of which were made in recent years and are still up to date. Furthermore, the practice of protecting large areas with 'blanket' Orders is now rarely used, and over the last 20 years or so, new TPOs have been restricted to just the very best trees, so these TPOs do not need to be reviewed. However, there are around 200 older, 'blanket' TPOs which will be reviewed.
Who is carrying out the Review of TPOs?
The Council is responsible for reviewing TPOs which will be undertaken by the Borough's arboricultural officers.
What is involved in the Review?
The first step is to survey the area to identify which trees meet the Council's criteria for protection by TPO, and those that do not qualify for protection. When the surveys are complete new TPOs will be created which are selective and apply only to the best trees. The 'blanket' TPO can then be removed ('revoked'). Because TPOs are legally binding, there are a number of steps that have to be taken by the Council in making a new TPO or revoking an old TPO, and residents affected by TPOs that are being reviewed will receive more information on this at the appropriate time. Unfortunately, the legal process requires the Council to write to residents on a number of occasions when reviewing a TPO. However, we will try to minimise the number of times we contact you.
How will this affect the existing TPO on my trees?
The best trees in your garden will continue to be protected by TPO, whilst protection may be lifted from trees that are of poorer quality. In addition, some trees that were too young to be included in the existing TPO when it was made may be recommended for inclusion in a new TPO.
Is it necessary for somebody to enter my garden to inspect my trees?
Yes, in many cases, an arboricultural officer will need to enter your garden to carry out the tree survey. They will carry an identity card issued by the Council. If you have any doubts about the identity of somebody claiming to be employed by the Council, please contact the Council's Tree Officer.
How can I find out more?
Contact the Council's Tree Officer.
On 1 October 2008 the new TPO regulations came into force. These introduce a standard application form for work to protected trees and a fast track appeals system.