City of Lincoln Council’s Executive is to consider a new dedicated policy to manage and maintain trees located on land owned by the council.
This initiative underscores the council’s commitment to public safety, property protection, and the responsible management of urban greenery.
Managing trees in urban settings presents unique challenges that differ significantly from those in more natural environments. Trees situated near development and areas with high footfall can sometimes create conflicts, as their growth may impact buildings or be seen as an inconvenience to some residents.
The city council recognises these challenges and aims to balance the needs of residents with the benefits trees bring, which usually means compromise at some level. The management of such compromises is undertaken by the city council’s arboricultural officers who handle hundreds of different complaints and enquiries each year.
The newly proposed policy is designed to ensure a clear and transparent approach to tree maintenance, diminishing the potential for conflict. The policy will enable the council to assist officers when making judgements and care for its tree assets. Key aspects of the policy include:
- Prioritising public safety.
- Protection of property and infrastructure by implementing measures to appropriately protect them from potential damage caused by trees, while also preserving the health of the trees.
- Appropriate tree care by maintaining all trees with consideration to their species, age, condition, and setting, ensuring that they are cared for to industry-recognised standards.
- Educational commitment by promoting the importance of trees in the urban environment and educating the public on their value, life cycle, and the necessary compromises involved in managing urban trees.
The policy also outlines the council’s approach to tree protection, including adherence to Tree Protection Orders (TPOs) and its commitment to replacing any removed trees on a one-for-one basis. This ensures the ongoing greening of the city while maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
Following a consultation with city councillors the authority is now working with its contractors to develop a simple notice system that will be displayed at the site of any tree removal. This notice will aim to inform the public of the reasons for the tree’s removal. Additionally, the council is exploring the possibility of making its digital maps and surveys of the city’s trees more accessible to the public, in partnership with its arboricultural software provider.
Steve Bird, Assistant Director of Communities and Street Scene at the city council said:
“Our city’s trees are a vital part of our urban environment, offering countless benefits from improving air quality to enhancing the aesthetic of our neighbourhoods.
“This proposed policy reflects our commitment to safeguarding these natural assets while addressing the legitimate concerns of our residents.
“By adopting a clear and transparent approach we can ensure that our trees are well-maintained, and that the community understands the value they bring to our city, such as pollution interception, noise reduction, improved road safety and representing a better living environment.”
This policy represents a step forward in the management of urban trees, ensuring that they continue to provide environmental, aesthetic, and health benefits to the community, while also addressing the concerns and needs of residents.