BTF response: OBJECT

The BTRS calculation has been modified without any proper justification. See the Officer's recommendations for trees - note the highlighted section.

"F) TREES Policy DM17 requires all new development should integrate important existing trees. Where tree loss or damage is essential to allow for appropriate development, replacement trees of an appropriate species should be provided, in accordance with the tree compensation standard. The application includes a tree survey and arboricultral impact assessment. 58 trees will be removed. The site has significant level changes to the south of the site, therefore developing the centre of the site would not be possible without removing the trees through ‘cut and fill’ process. It has therefore been agreed that these trees in the centre of the site should be removed to facilitate the development. The trees to be removed from the site to allow the development to take place result in a requirement of 192 trees to be replaced either on site or as offsite contributions in accordance with Bristol City Councils Trees Replacement Policy. To enhance the site and give immediate benefit to the school and development it has been proposed to provided Semi-mature trees on site in addition to heavy standard trees. It has been agreed with Bristol City Councils Tree Officers that they would accept reducing the number of mitigation trees on a ratio of 3 BTRS replacement trees to 1 larger replacement planted. Based on the following: -Trees to be 20-25cm Girth -Proposals to be accompanied by a thorough and detailed watering schedule. -Other trees on site can be planted at 12-14cm Girth. On this basis 43 trees of 20-25cm Girth and 63 trees of 12-14cm Girth are proposed at the development site – meeting the requirement to replace all the trees at the site, in line with Bristol City Councils Tree Officers recommendations . The planting plant includes a mix of larger trees and standard 10-12cm girth trees. The proposed species composition is good, with a reasonable mix of potential tree size ranging from small ornamental fruit trees to trees with a larger mature height and long term contribution. Subject to conditions the proposal is considered compliant with policy DM17." 

Whatever the merits of this decision, we challenge this new gloss on the application of BTRS. 

See also - https://planningonline.bristol.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=PZDDSSDNGLM00 - which has no reports attached.

The application has been granted, subject to these conditions:

19. Tree planting Prior to completion or first occupation of the development hereby approved, whichever is the sooner; details of treatment of all parts on the site not covered by buildings shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The site shall be landscaped strictly in accordance with the approved details in the first planting season after completion or first occupation of the development, whichever is the sooner. Details shall include: 1) a scaled plan showing all existing vegetation and landscape features to be retained and trees and plants to be planted; 2) Details of weekly watering requirements for each planted tree. Application No: 19/01927/FB Page 7 of 15 3) specifications for operations associated with plant establishment and maintenance that are compliant with best practise; and 4) types and dimensions of all boundary treatments There shall be no excavation or raising or lowering of levels within the prescribed root protection area of retained trees unless agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Unless required by a separate landscape management condition, all soft landscaping shall have a written five year maintenance programme following planting. Any new tree(s) that die(s), are/is removed or become(s) severely damaged or diseased shall be replaced and any new planting (other than trees) which dies, is removed, becomes severely damaged or diseased within five years of planting shall be replaced. Unless further specific permission has been given by the Local Planning Authority, replacement planting shall be in accordance with the approved details. Reason: Required to safeguard and enhance the character and amenity of the area, to provide ecological, environmental and bio-diversity benefits and to maximise the quality and usability of open spaces within the development, and to enhance its setting within the immediate locality in accordance with DM15 and DM17.