Protected oak trimming at Girton Avenue

How to comment

Tell the council what you think. Quote reference 26/2136.

Summary

A protected oak in the garden at 70 Girton Avenue would be trimmed. The work would reduce its crown by about one fifth.

Dead and damaged branches would be removed where needed. Some lower branches may be trimmed. The tree would stay in place and keep its natural shape.

The council will decide after the comment period. The tree work is not stated as already done or approved.

What the council wrote

The work planned is to provide maintenance and management of the oak tree in my garden. The proposed works comprise the crown reduction and selective crown pruning of one mature oak tree protected by a Tree Preservation Order. The tree is to be carefully reduced by approximately 15%-20% of the overall crown volume which will equate to about 2.5-3metres, retaining the natural shape and form of the tree. The reduction will be achieved through selective pruning of suitable secondary and tertiary branches, with cuts kept to appropriate growth points and branch unions. The works will include: * A selective crown reduction of approximately 15-20% (2.5metres-3metres) * Reduction of suitable lateral branches by approximately 2.5- 3m, where required to achieve an even and balanced crown. * Removal of dead, dying, damaged and crossing branches where appropriate. * Selective removal of weak or poorly attached secondary branches. * Crown lifting only where necessary, with no excessive removal of lower limbs. * All pruning cuts to be made in accordance with good arboricultural practice and BS 3998:2010. * The natural shape, balance and structural integrity of the oak will be retained. * No more than the minimum amount of live growth necessary will be removed. Reason for the Proposed Works The proposed pruning is intended to reduce the overall crown size and manage the tree's growth while retaining its visual amenity, health and long-term structural stability. The tree is a mature specimen and makes a significant contribution to the local landscape. The proposed works have therefore been designed to be proportionate and sympathetic to the tree, avoiding excessive pruning or unnecessary removal of healthy live wood. The reduction will also help maintain the tree within the available space and reduce excessive end-weight on selected limbs, while allowing the tree to be retained as a healthy and prominent landscape feature. Method of Works All works will be undertaken by a suitably qualified and experienced arboricultural contractor using appropriate pruning techniques. Works will be carried out in accordance with BS 3998:2010 ? Recommendations for Tree Work, with consideration given to the tree's structural condition, wildlife value and surrounding environment. The completed tree will retain a natural appearance with an even distribution of foliage and no excessive or disproportionate pruning. No felling or removal of the tree is proposed.