Chorltonville Tree Policy

Introduction

This policy aims to promote the sustainable management, conservation, and enhancement of trees within Chorltonville. As a historic garden village, our trees are vital to the community’s identity, ecology, and overall well-being.

Objectives

• Ensure the health and safety of trees throughout Chorltonville.
• Enhance biodiversity and habitat connectivity.
• Engage the community in tree care and management.
• Establish clear guidelines for tree planting, maintenance, and removal.

Value of Trees in Chorltonville

The mature trees, originally planted as part of the garden city concept, are essential to Chorltonville’s character. Their preservation is crucial, and their management is a priority.

Tree Management Practices

• Duty of Care: our approach follows the National Tree Safety Group’s guidelines set out in their Report on Common Sense Risk Management of Trees and this forms the basis to our tree strategy
• Assessment and Monitoring: An annual audit of the approximately 360 trees is conducted in adherence to Manchester City Council’s Planning Authority guidelines, focusing on tree health, safety, and structural integrity.
• Resident Involvement: Volunteers from the committee walk the estate once or twice a year to identify and record any concerns. Ongoing concerns are reported throughout the year.
• Committee Coordination: The committee’s tree representative meets with the tree contractor once or twice a year to schedule necessary works. Priority focuses on addressing branches closer than 2 meters to a property, lower than 2 meters over footpaths, and lower than 5 meters over roads, as well as removing deadwood.
• Desired work: includes aesthetic pruning and enhancing overall tree health, as identified during annual audits or resident reports.
• Urgent Works: are undertaken on an ad hoc basis depending on any immediate action required.
• Negative Reporting System: We operate a negative reporting system where only defects are reported. This approach allows for streamlined communication and for cost savings shared for all residents of the estate.

Tree Planting Policy

• Species Selection: Native and traditional tree species are prioritised, considering ecological balance and the historical context of the estate. New planting considers the impact on existing structures and underground services.
• Location and Spacing: Trees are planted in suitable locations to ensure adequate space for growth and to minimise conflicts with utilities and infrastructure.

Community Engagement and Education

Residents are encouraged to participate in tree care efforts, such as watering during dry spells and reporting any concerns regarding tree health, damage, or vandalism.

Compliance and Review

All trees within Chorltonville are protected as part of the conservation area and cannot be pruned or removed without permission from Manchester City Council.

Contact Information

For inquiries or concerns regarding tree management in Chorltonville, residents can contact the Tree Officer or the designated member of the Owners’ Committee responsible for tree care at trees@chorltonville.org.