Growing public awareness of environmental matters combined
with high demand for new housing, particularly on brown field sites, means
that there is increasing pressure to include trees in built developments.
This often means trying to retain the existing mature ones, which can
be very vulnerable to damage, either during construction or afterwards
if houses are built too close to them.
Retaining unsuitable trees within developments can also
cause major long term problems. Most problems can be avoided if suitable
arboricultural advice is taken at an early stage. Simon specialises in
this work, from the initial site survey right through to post completion
inspections, including help with applications and appeals if necessary.
He is frequently instructed by developers or their professional advisers,
including architects and planning consultants, but also often works for
local planning authorities.