Arboricultural Method Statement, Impact Assessment and Tree Protection Plan in Accordance with BS 5837:2012 ALDRIDGE, OUTWOOD LANE, CHIPSTEAD, SURREY, CR5 3NG SouthOaks Arboricultural Consultancy Tel 07460 879833 www.surreytreeconsultant.co.uk elliott@surreytreeconsultant.co.uk
SouthOaks Contents Executive Summary 1 Introduction 2 The Site 3 Tree Survey Parameters 4 Tree Survey and Analysis 5 Arboricultural Impact Assessment 9 Tree Protection Plan 12 Arboricultural Method Statement _______________16
PG.01 SouthOaks Pg. 02 SouthOaks 1. Executive Summary 1.1 The proposal is for a replacement dwellinghouse and associated external works at Aldridge, Outwood Lane, Chipstead, Surrey, CR5 3NG. Arboricultural Survey 1.2 The site was inspected by Elliott Foulkes (Dip Arb L4 ABC, TechArborA) on Monday 6th July 2026. There are no Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) listed and the property is not within a Conservation Area (CA) according to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council online records. The street scene is residential in nature and is characterised by detached residential dwellings. 1.3 1 individual tree was classified within the ‘B’ category due to its combination of conservational, amenity value and maturity. 4 individual / group of trees were classified within the ‘C’ category. Arboricultural Impact Assessment 1.4 If necessary any small trees with a diameter of below 75mm diameter may be felled to accommodate for the proposed development and improve site access. The removal of G5 is proposed as part of a comprehensive site-wide strategy to improve the visual and structural cohesion of the post-development landscape. The hedgerow is designated as Category C due to its low individual arboricultural merit and limited structural scale, with all component stems falling below the 75mm diameter threshold. While the group contains valuable native species, its current form is unmanaged, structurally sprawling, and lacks long-term aesthetic alignment with the proposed high-quality built environment. The removal of this low-category group enables its replacement with a professionally designed, native-rich landscape boundary. This new planting scheme will retain the ecological benefits of the original species mix but will be structured to provide a more uniform, maintainable, and aesthetically superior contribution to the local green infrastructure. This proactive management approach ensures a sustainable, long-term visual asset for the site that far outweighs the retention of the current unmanaged feature. 1.5 If precautions are followed as per the method statement included within this report there will be minimal impact on the trees rooting system. The proposed development falls outside the RPA of all trees. To protect the trees protection fencing must be installed as indicated within the Tree Protection Plan.
Pg. 02 SouthOaks 2. Introduction 2.1 Instruction 2.1.1 SouthOaks are instructed to visit and survey the trees in accordance with BS5837:2012. This includes trees that are within influencing distance of the tree Root Protection Area (RPA), and trees to be retained that may be affected by potential loss or damage within influencing distance of Aldridge, Outwood Lane, Chipstead, Surrey, CR5 3NG. 2.2 Background Information 2.2.1 We have been provided with a block plan and proposed site plan without precise tree locations. 2.2.2 The principle reason for this investigation is to provide professional arboricultural advice to assist in tree retention with nearby construction works. This report includes an arboricultural Impact Assessment, Tree Protection and Arboricultural Method Statement in accordance with BS5837:2012 in order to produce a BS5837 report. This report is to inform of feasibility studies and design options in regard to tree constraints. 2.2.3 Care has been taken to obtain all information from reliable sources, and all data has been verified where possible. However no guarantee can be given of the accuracy of information provided by others.
Pg. 03 SouthOaks 2.3 Plans and documents 2.3.1 A survey and map included in this report will include all tree numbers, specifically where it has not been possible to tag trees due to access. This document will notify of any additional trees not included in the topographical survey. 2.3.2 We have no connections with any of the parties involved in this site that could influence the opinions expressed in this report. 2.3.3 Planning permission overrides a Tree Preservation Order and Conservation Area. 3. The Site 3.1. Site Visit 3.1.1 The site was inspected by Elliott Foulkes (Dip Arb L4 ABC, TechArborA) Monday 6th July 2026, weather conditions provided good visibility of the trees. Access was not granted for neighbouring properties. 3.1.2 The information contained in this report covers the trees inspected and reflects the tree condition and site conditions at the time of inspection. Measurements were taken using a diameter tape, digital laser measure and digital clinometer. 3.1.3 The trees were inspected from ground level only, no climbing inspections were undertaken.
Pg. 04 SouthOaks 3.2. Site Description 3.2.1 There are no Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) listed and the property is not within a Conservation Area (CA) according to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council online records. The street scene is residential in nature and is characterised by detached residential dwellings. 3.3. The soil 3.3.1 Although believed to be shallow lime-rich soil over chalk or limestone (www.landis.org.uk), we are unable to provide exact details of soil structure. If the soil is shrinkable the trees and other vegetation have the potential to cause indirect damage to structures. If there is a requirement to assess subsidence damage further research from a soil engineer would be advised. 4. Tree Survey Parameters 4.1 Parameters 4.1.1 Trees growing as groups have been identified and assessed as such where we have determined it appropriate. 4.1.2 Trees have been categorized using the criteria shown in table 1 in accordance with BS5837:2012. This is used to identify the quality and value of the existing tree stock allowing informed decisions to be made concerning which trees should be removed or retained in the event of development. BS5837 requires retention of better quality trees where possible (category A and B). Only trees with a stem diameter of 75mm or more measured at 1.5m above highest adjacent ground level are included as per BS5837:2012 guidance 4.1.3 Trees that require immediate attention, either due to serious hazard to life or property, or trees affected by pests or pathogens that may cause widespread or serious damage unless controlled or eradicated should be brought to the attention of the relevant person or organisation (including statutory authorities where applicable).
Pg. 05 SouthOaks 5. Tree Survey and analysis 5.1 Species 5.2 Distribution of categories Common name Scientific name Cherry Prunus sp. Cypress Cupressus sp. Elder Sambucus sp. Elm Ulmus sp. Dogwood Castanea sp. Hazel Cornus sp. Holly Ilex sp. BS5837 Category Number of trees Percent of trees B1 1 20% C1 1 20% C2 3 60% Total 5 100%
Pg. 06 SouthOaks 5.3 Key to survey 5.3.1 Ref – Reference number allocated to the tree or group of trees: T = Single tree G= Group of trees DBH – Diameter at Breast Height. The tree diameter measured at 4.5 feet above the ground. Where the level of the ground is uneven measurements are taken above the upper side of the slope. RPA – Root Protection Area. RPA’s for single stem trees should be calculated as an area equivalent to a circle with a radius 12 times the stem diameter. For trees with more than one stem one of two calculations are formulated in accordance with BS5837:2012. Branch spread – The longest branches measured to the North, East, South and West Height of first branch – First significant branch from ground level measured from the main stem Height of canopy - First significant branch from ground level measured from the branch tip ERC – Estimated Remaining Contribution. 0-10 = Unsuitable for retaining 20+ = Short term retention potential 30+ = Mid to long term retention potential 40+ = Long term retention potential Age – Categorised into the following: Y = Young SM = Semi-mature EM = Early-mature M = Mature OM = Over-mature
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Pg. 08 SouthOaksRef Height (metres) Common name Stem Diameter (mm) North East South West Height of first branch (metres) Height of canopy (metres) Age Remaining life span General observations Category RPA (metres) G1 8 Cypress 200 2 2 2 2 0.5 0.5 SM 20+ Maintained as a hedge C2 2.4 T2 14 Cherry 400 5 5 5 5 8 8 M 30+ Off site tree with limited visibility, stem diameter estimated B1 4.8 T3 5 Dogwood 300 0 1 3 1 3 2 M 20+ Dieback, heavily ivy clad C1 3.6 G4 6 Cypress 75 1 1 1 1 0.5 0.5 Y 20+ Maintained as a hedge C2 0.9 G5 5 Mixed hedge 75 1 1 1 1 0.5 0.5 Y 20+ Hedge consisting of elder, elm, hazel and holly C2 0.9 Branch Spread (metres)
Pg. 09 SouthOaks 6. Arboricultural Impact Assessment 6.1 Introduction 6.1.1 It is our duty to evaluate and provide a methodology on the direct and indirect effects of the proposed design on trees above and below ground implementing constraints where necessary and recommend mitigation strategies on and adjacent to the site in accordance to BS5837:2012. 6.1.2 Site access for construction traffic is from the rear of the property via Outwood Lane. 6.2 Observations Trees selected for removal 6.2.1 Ref Description of tree work G5 Fell to ground level and remove stumps Loss of trees 6.2.2 If necessary any small trees with a diameter of below 75mm diameter may be felled to accommodate for the proposed development and improve site access. The removal of G5 (photo – right) is proposed as part of a comprehensive site-wide strategy to improve the visual and structural cohesion of the post- development landscape. The hedgerow is designated as Category C due to its low individual arboricultural merit and limited structural scale, with all component stems falling below the 75mm diameter threshold. While the group contains valuable native species, its current form is unmanaged, structurally sprawling, and lacks long-term aesthetic alignment with the proposed high-quality built environment. The removal of this low-category group enables its replacement with a professionally designed, native-rich landscape boundary. This new planting scheme will retain the ecological benefits of the original species mix but will be structured to provide a more uniform, maintainable, and aesthetically superior contribution to the local green infrastructure. This proactive management approach ensures a sustainable, long-term visual asset for the site that far outweighs the retention of the current unmanaged feature.
Pg. 10 SouthOaks Tree surgery 6.2.3 Tree work may be required prior to the commencement to allow for the construction and to avoid damage during construction by machinery or vehicles. All work should be carried out by a competent and fully qualified arborist with liability insurance in accordance with British Standard 3998:2010 “Recommendations for Tree Work”. Ref Description of tree work Justification N/A N/A N/A Areas designated for structural landscaping 6.2.4 We have not been made aware of any plans for any alterations of soil levels within RPA’s. Above ground constraints 6.2.5 Delivery of building materials should be off-loaded on existing hard standing and away from the Root Protection Area (RPA) of the trees. Any movement of materials within the RPA are to be transported by foot on existing hard standing areas or where sufficient ground protection has been installed. Equipment using hydraulic arms need to stay out of striking distance of trees and their branches. Root Protection Area (RPA) 6.2.6 Access within the root protection area must be confined to existing hard standing. It is not permitted to dig within the RPA’s unless it is outlined in this report and supervised by a competent arboricultural consultant. If digging is required within the RPA it must be completed by use of hand tools and gentle soil displacement methods (e.g. air spade) that avoid potential damage to tree roots, a professional arboriculturist must be present to supervise this type of work. If it is visualised that underground utility services are to be installed within any RPA an additional method statement must be requested from us.
Pg. 11 SouthOaks Impact Summary 6.2.7 If precautions are followed as per the method statement included within this report there will be minimal impact on the trees rooting system. The proposed development falls outside the RPA of all trees. To protect the trees protection fencing must be installed as indicated within the Tree Protection Plan. Issues to be addressed by an arboricultural method statement 6.2.8 Method Tree protection fencing
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Pg. 13 SouthOaks 7. Tree Protection Plan 7.1 Introduction Circulation 7.1.1 It is vital that all parties involved in the planning of the development are privy to the information of this report. Copies of the report should be circulated to all individuals as soon as it is made available. Accountabilities 7.1.2 Tree protection measures should be implemented for the short and long term in co-ordination with the client and all personnel involved in the development 7.1.3 It is the responsibility of the client and agent to hand a copy of this report to the site manager and to ensure that the compliance of the tree protection scheme is followed. The client and agent must make sure the site manager is updated on any authorised changes to this document. They must also ensure all planning conditions in relation to trees, underground works, services and landscaping have been approved before work begins. 7.1.4 It is the responsibility of the client and site manager to make available this report to personnel prior to and during site construction. Personnel must be briefed on the tree protection plan and arboricultural method statement and its importance. The client and site manager must make sure that personnel are updated on any authorised changes to this document. 7.1.5 Compliance of this document and any variations of this document is compulsory.
Pg. 14 SouthOaks Schedule of works 7.1.6 Arboricultural work and tree protection installation should be carried out in the following order. Any deviation from this order should be approved by the Local Planning Authority: 1. Tree Protection fencing to be installed by a competent contractor and approved by a competent arboricultural consultant. 2. Tree protection fencing to be removed post construction after approval of a competent arboricultural consultant. 3. Construction and arboricultural site monitoring by a competent arboricultural consultant at agreed intervals.
Pg. 15 SouthOaks 7.1.7 Site prohibitions 1. Contractor’s car parking on site is confined to existing hard standing or outside of any RPA. 2. Root Protection Areas are no-dig zones unless supervised by a competent arboricultural consultant. 3. Fires are prohibited on site. 4. Storing of materials, spoil, fuel and mixing of cement and concrete must be confined to hard standing in a zone outside of the Root Protection Areas. The slope of the ground must be taken into account to avoid harmful liquid spills to protected areas. 5. Felling, cutting, or damaging any retained trees is not allowed. This includes attaching signs or using trees as structural support 6. Equipment using hydraulic arms stay out of striking distance of trees and their branches Compliance 7.1.8 Non-compliance of the tree protection plan means work must be halted immediately and instantly reported to the site manager. This will then need to be reported to the Local Planning Authority tree officer and SouthOaks.
Pg. 16 SouthOaks 7.3 Arboricultural Method Statement Tree Protection Fencing 7.2.1 Tree protection fencing is to be installed according to the schedule of works before any materials or machinery are brought onto the site. It should be confirmed by a competent arboricultural consultant that the fencing has been correctly set out on site prior to the commencement of any other operations. Fencing should be fit for purpose of excluding construction activity around trees, they should be maintained to remain structurally sound. 7.2.2 The default barrier specification should consist of vertical and horizontal scaffold framework, the verticals should be spaced at a maximum of 3 meters apart (see figure 1) with mesh panels welded onto the framework. The uprights driven into the ground should not make contact with structural roots or underground services. Figure 1 – Default specification for protective barrier
Pg. 17 SouthOaks Figure 2
Pg. 18 SouthOaks Site monitoring and pre-commencement meeting 7.2.3 An auditable system of arboricultural site monitoring is in place according to the schedule of works. A competent arboricultural consultant should monitor site activity at intervals throughout the project and should extend to arboricultural supervision whenever construction and development activity is to take place within or adjacent to an RPA. The final details of supervision and the frequency of inspection visits will be agreed at the pre- commencement meeting. The supervision arrangement will be sufficiently flexible to allow the supervision of all sensitive works as they occur. A pre-commencement site meeting involving the land owner, representative of the Client, arboricultural consultant, contractors and engineers (as appropriate), and relevant LPA officers will be held to ensure that all aspects of the tree protection processes are understood and agreed. The meeting is where the details of the program of tree protection will be agreed and finalised, which will then form the basis of any supervision arrangements between the arboricultural consultant and the developer.