Policy information sourced from the Southwark Local Plan 2022

P61 Trees

  • Development will be permitted if trees are planted as part of landscaping and public realm schemes, commensurate to the scale and type of development, and the character of the neighbourhood.
  • Development must retain and protect significant existing trees including:
    • Trees designated with Tree Protection Orders (TPOs); and
    • Trees that have a high amenity value; and
    • Trees within Conservation Areas or the setting or curtilage of listed buildings; and
    • Veteran, ancient and notable trees; and
  • Development must retain and enhance the borough’s trees and canopy cover; and
  • Where trees are removed to facilitate development, they should be replaced by new trees which result in no net loss of amenity, taking into account canopy cover as measured by stem girth; either
    • Within the development whereby valuation may be calculated using the Capital Asset Value for Amenity Trees (CAVAT) methodology or other assessment; or
    • If this is not possible, outside the development. In this case a financial contribution must be provided to improve borough tree planting located according to ‘right tree right place’ principles. The financial contribution will include ongoing maintenance costs where trees are planted in the public realm.
  • Tree planting should be adaptable to climate change while supporting native species. The selection and position of trees should improve air quality and they should have a long life with and high biodiversity and amenity value.
  • Retained trees must be protected during the construction process in line with British Standard BS5837.
  • In exceptional circumstances removal of trees protected by TPO or conservation area status will be permitted where sufficient evidence has been provided to justify their loss. Replacement planting will be expected where removal is agreed. The replacement of TPO trees must take into account the loss of canopy cover as measured by stem girth and biodiversity value.

For more information please see the Southwark Local Plan 2022