Category: News

What Is a Preliminary Roost Assessment?

If you’re asking yourself, “Do I need a Preliminary Roost Assessment?”, the answer depends on the type of building work you have planned and whether your property or site could provide potential roosting features or habitats for bats. A Preliminary Roost Assessment (PRA) is the first stage of an ecological survey for bats. It is designed to determine whether a structure or tree has the potential to support a bat roost before any development, renovations or tree work begins. Once this survey is completed, depending on the rating, an emergence survey may follow.

Many different types of projects may require a Preliminary Roost Assessment, including: a roof replacement, loft conversion, home extension, barn conversion, chimney repairs, the installation of solar panels, demolition, or certain tree works. A PRA is also often requested as part of a planning application, helping developers, homeowners and Local Planning Authorities understand whether protected species could be affected by the proposed works.

During this survey, an expert ecologist will carry out a detailed visual inspection of the building, structures and/or trees. Regarding buildings, this may include examining the roof void, roof space, loft inspection areas, roof timbers, timber beams, roof tiles, hanging tiles, soffits, fascias, brickwork, flashing and other structural features that could provide access or shelter for bats. Any evidence found will also be recorded and contribute towards the overall rating for any potential roosting features. These may include bat droppings, feeding remains, staining around entry points or visible bats. As for tree inspections, the main features which are inspected are mature trees, tree cavities, splits, cracks and loose bark that could provide suitable roosting opportunities.

In the UK, all bat species and their roosts are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. This means that carrying out any work which damages a bat roost or disturbs bats, even unintentionally, may result in legal consequences.

Sign 1: Your Property Is More Than 50 Years Old

The age of your property can be one of the first indicators that you may need a Preliminary Roost Assessment. While there is no legal age threshold that automatically triggers a bat survey before building work, buildings that are more than 50 years old are generally more likely to contain features that could be used by roosting bats.

Over time, gaps can develop beneath roof tiles, around soffits, within brickwork and inside the roof void, creating sheltered spaces that bats may use for roosting. If you’re planning a roof replacement, loft conversion, home extension or other building work, an older property may require a Preliminary Roost Assessment before work begins, particularly if a planning application is needed.

Ultimately, having a property that is more than 50 years old doesn’t automatically mean you’ll need a bat survey; however, it is more likely due to its age and the increased likelihood of containing potential roosting features.

Sign 2: You’re Planning Roof Repairs or a Roof Replacement

Roof repairs and roof replacements are some of the main construction works which may require a Preliminary Roost Assessment, these works can disturb features commonly used by bats, including gaps beneath roof tiles, around ridge tiles, soffits, fascias and within the roof space or roof void.

If the initial assessment identifies suitable bat habitat, further bat surveys before building work may be recommended to support your planning application or ensure the project complies with UK wildlife legislation. By identifying any ecological constraints early, you can plan your project with confidence and reduce the risk of unexpected delays once work has begun.

Sign 3: You’re Converting a Loft or Roof Space

A loft conversion is one of the most common types of development that can affect bats, as lofts and roof spaces often provide the quiet, sheltered conditions they need for roosting. Although you may not have seen bats in the property, however, there may be some small gaps around roof coverings, or they may be able to access the building through tiny openings which aren’t obvious.

Converting a loft usually involves altering areas that bats are most likely to occupy. Arranging these surveys before building works begin ensures your project complies with wildlife legislation and avoids unnecessary delays.

Sign 4: Your Project Requires Planning Permission

If your project requires planning permission, your Local Planning Authority may ask for a Preliminary Roost Assessment for planning if there is a reasonable likelihood that bats could be affected by the proposed development. This commonly applies to projects such as home extensions, barn conversions, roof replacements, demolition, and other alterations to older buildings or sites with suitable bat habitat.

A bat survey for planning permission isn’t required for every application. However, if your property contains potential roost features or the proposed works could affect a bat roost, the planning authority may request ecological information before making a decision.

Sign 5: There Are Mature Trees Being Removed or Pruned

Bats don’t just roost in buildings; they also roost in mature trees. If your project involves removing, pruning or carrying out works on established trees, a Preliminary Roost Assessment may be needed to check for features that could support roosting bats.

Trees with cavities, cracks, splits, loose bark, hollow sections or dense ivy cover can provide potential shelter for bats. These features may not always be visible from the ground, which is why a professional ecological assessment is important before work begins.

Sign 6: You’ve Seen Signs of Bats Around the Property

If you have ever noticed bats flying around your property, found bat droppings or spotted other signs of activity, it may be an indication that your building or surrounding habitat could support a bat roost. While seeing bats nearby does not automatically confirm that they are roosting on your property, it is a good reason to seek ecological advice before starting any building work.

Bats can use small, hidden areas such as gaps behind roof tiles, cracks in brickwork, roof voids, loft spaces and other sheltered locations that are difficult to identify without a professional inspection.

Sign 7: You’re Converting a Barn, Outbuilding or Agricultural Building

Older barns, outbuildings and agricultural buildings are often valuable habitats for bats due to their traditional construction and numerous access points. Features such as gaps in stonework, exposed roof timbers, loose roof coverings, hanging tiles, timber beams and sheltered roof spaces can provide suitable conditions for a bat roost.

If you are planning a barn conversion, renovation or change of use, a Preliminary Roost Assessment may be required to identify whether the building has the potential to support bats. Because many agricultural buildings are located in rural areas close to hedgerows, woodland and water sources, they can be particularly important for bats as both roosting and foraging locations.

Sign 8: Your Building Has Features That Could Support Bats

Not all buildings are equally suitable for bats, but certain structural features can significantly increase the likelihood of a building supporting a bat roost. Common features that may provide roosting opportunities include gaps beneath roof tiles, lifted or hanging tiles, cracks in brickwork, open soffits, flashing, cavities behind cladding and access into the roof void or roof space. Inside the building, exposed roof timbers, timber beams and undisturbed loft areas may also offer suitable conditions for bats.

Even if there is no visible evidence of bat activity, buildings with these features may still require a Preliminary Roost Assessment before building work, particularly if you’re planning a roof replacement, extension, loft conversion or demolition.

Sign 9: You’re Demolishing or Extensively Altering a Building

If your project involves demolition or significant structural alterations, there is a greater chance of affecting a bat roost or damaging features that bats may use for shelter. Whether you’re demolishing a house, garage, barn or commercial building, a Preliminary Roost Assessment is often recommended before work begins.

Major works such as removing roofs, rebuilding walls, replacing roof structures or stripping a building back to its framework can disturb hidden roosting locations. Even if bats are not visible, they may be using cracks, cavities or the roof void, making it important to establish whether any potential roost features are present.

If you’re wondering whether you need a bat survey before demolition, a Preliminary Roost Assessment is the first step.

Sign 10: You Want to Avoid Delays Once Work Has Started

One of the most important reasons to arrange a Preliminary Roost Assessment is to identify potential ecological constraints before construction begins. If evidence of bats or suitable roosting habitat is only discovered after building work has started, work may need to be paused while further ecological advice or surveys are carried out.

If a PRA is completed early, any survey requirements can usually be identified before your planning application is determined or work begins, helping you plan your project with greater certainty.

Why Choose ProHort for Your Preliminary Roost Assessment?

At ProHort, our professional team can provide the expert guidance you need to move your project forward with confidence. Our experienced ecologists carry out thorough assessments for homeowners, developers, architects and planning consultants across a wide range of projects, from home extensions and roof replacements to barn conversions, demolition and tree work.

We understand that ecological surveys are often a key part of the planning process, which is why we work closely with our clients to identify potential constraints as early as possible. By carrying out a Preliminary Roost Assessment before building work, we can determine whether a building or tree has the potential to support bats and advise if any further bat surveys or bat emergence surveys are required. This proactive approach helps support planning applications, minimise unnecessary delays and ensure compliance with UK wildlife legislation.

With a focus on delivering reliable, professional advice, ProHort is committed to helping clients achieve planning success while protecting biodiversity. If you’re unsure when a Preliminary Roost Assessment is required or how to know if you need a bat survey, our team is here to help you identify the most appropriate next steps.

UK garden wildlife in June can be very busy, with many species bustling to find food, raise their young, and breed, making this a sensitive and important time for biodiversity. Species such as swans and cygnets, fox cubs, hedgehogs foraging at night, and tawny owls all play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

For those involved in landscaping and grounds management, understanding animals active in June UK is essential for supporting healthy ecosystems. Small changes in maintenance practices, habitat protection, and planting choices can have a significant impact on local wildlife populations and long-term biodiversity.

Swans and Cygnets in the UK: Behaviour During the June Breeding Season

In June, mute swans are a highly visible part of the UK’s waterways, particularly across lakes, rivers, canals, and managed parkland ponds. This period is a key stage in the swans and cygnets UK breeding cycle, as young cygnets continue to grow rapidly under the close protection of both parents.

During early summer, swan families become noticeably more territorial. Adult swans will often defend nesting areas and nearby water margins aggressively, a natural behaviour that helps safeguard cygnets during their most vulnerable stage. While this can appear intimidating, it is an important part of maintaining survival rates within local populations.

Cygnets themselves are still developing in June, typically displaying soft grey plumage before gradually transitioning to the white feathers associated with adulthood. At this stage, they remain heavily dependent on parental guidance for feeding and protection, often staying close together as a family group while moving through shallow water and sheltered edges.

From an ecological perspective, swans contribute to shaping aquatic environments by grazing on submerged vegetation, which helps maintain balance within pond and wetland ecosystems. However, their presence also highlights the importance of careful wildlife-friendly gardening UK and landscape management around water bodies.

For those managing public or private green space, protecting swans during this period involves maintaining buffer zones around nesting sites and avoiding unnecessary disturbance along water edges. Ensuring that aquatic habitats remain clean, undisturbed, and naturally vegetated supports both cygnet development and wider UK wildlife in June biodiversity health.

Fox Cubs in UK Gardens: June Activity and Urban Wildlife Behaviour

June is an important stage in the annual cycle of fox cubs in UK gardens, as young foxes born in spring begin to emerge more frequently from their dens and explore their surroundings. At this point, cubs are developing essential survival skills such as foraging, social interaction, and navigating local territory under the supervision of adult foxes.

In both urban and suburban environments, foxes have adapted remarkably well to human presence. They often use green corridors, garden edges, railway embankments, and unmanaged spaces as movement routes, making them a regular part of urban wildlife UK ecosystems. During early summer, increased daylight activity can make foxes more visible, particularly in the early morning or evening hours.

Foxes play an important ecological role as opportunistic scavengers and natural controllers of small mammal populations. This helps maintain balance within local ecosystems and supports healthier garden ecosystems UK, particularly where prey species such as rodents and insects are abundant.

As cubs become more independent in June, they begin to explore further from their natal dens, although they typically remain within a familiar territory range. This period is crucial for learning hunting behaviour and social hierarchy within family groups.

Supporting fox populations in managed landscapes is less about direct intervention and more about maintaining suitable habitat conditions. Retaining vegetated boundaries, allowing safe movement through connected green spaces, and avoiding unnecessary disturbance near known den sites all contribute to healthier long-term populations within the wider UK garden wildlife in June environment.

Hedgehogs in Summer UK Gardens: Feeding Behaviour and Habitat Protection

During June, hedgehogs are an active and important part of UK garden wildlife in June, typically emerging after dusk to forage for insects, worms, beetles, and other invertebrates. This period of early summer provides a rich food supply, supporting both adult hedgehogs and any young that may have recently become independent.

As nocturnal animals, hedgehogs rely heavily on undisturbed ground-level habitats to move safely between feeding areas. In many urban and suburban environments, gardens act as vital stepping-stones, forming connected routes through urban wildlife UK corridors that allow them to travel between suitable foraging sites.

Hedgehogs also play a valuable ecological role within garden ecosystems UK, acting as natural pest controllers by reducing populations of slugs and other invertebrates. This makes them particularly beneficial in both domestic gardens and managed green spaces where maintaining natural balance is a priority.

However, modern landscaping practices can unintentionally reduce suitable habitat. Overly tidy gardens, the use of chemical pest control, and fragmented green spaces all contribute to declining hedgehog populations across the UK. Ensuring safe passage between areas is therefore essential for their long-term survival.

Supporting hedgehogs through wildlife-friendly gardening UK approaches involves practical measures such as creating small access gaps in fencing, retaining log piles and leaf litter, and avoiding harmful pesticides. Providing shallow water sources and maintaining areas of dense, undisturbed vegetation can also significantly improve habitat quality.

By protecting hedgehogs during this active summer period, landscapers and land managers contribute directly to the wider health of British wildlife in June, helping to maintain balanced and resilient ecosystems across both urban and rural environments.

Tawny Owls in the UK: Nocturnal Wildlife Activity in June

In June, tawny owls remain an important part of UK garden wildlife in June, particularly during the hours of dusk and night when their activity is at its peak. This period often coincides with the later stages of the breeding cycle, where fledged young are becoming more independent but still rely on adult birds for feeding and protection.

Tawny owls are highly effective nocturnal predators, playing a key role in regulating populations of small mammals such as mice, voles, and occasionally larger insects. This natural form of control contributes to healthier and more balanced garden ecosystems UK, particularly in areas with mature trees and connected green corridors.

Their presence is often associated with established woodland, parkland, and rural-edge habitats, but they can also be found in quieter suburban areas where suitable nesting sites and prey availability exist. Mature trees with cavities or dense cover are especially important, as they provide both shelter and breeding locations.

Light pollution and habitat loss remain two of the most significant pressures affecting tawny owl populations in managed environments. Excessive artificial lighting can disrupt hunting behaviour, while the removal of older trees reduces available nesting opportunities across both urban and rural landscapes.

Supporting tawny owls through wildlife-friendly gardening UK and sensitive landscape management involves retaining mature trees wherever possible, reducing unnecessary night-time lighting, and maintaining rough grassland or undisturbed margins that support prey species. These measures help sustain a healthy balance within wider UK wildlife in June ecosystems, particularly during this critical post-breeding period.

How to Protect UK Garden Wildlife in June

June is a particularly important month for UK garden wildlife in June, as many species are actively breeding, feeding, and raising young. During this time, even small changes in landscape management and gardening practices can have a significant impact on local biodiversity and the long-term health of surrounding ecosystems.

One of the most effective ways to support British wildlife in June is by reducing disturbance in key habitats such as hedgerows, water margins, and undisturbed grass areas. These spaces often provide essential shelter and feeding opportunities for species such as hedgehogs, foxes, swans, and nocturnal wildlife like owls.

Maintaining connected green spaces is also crucial within urban wildlife UK environments. Wildlife corridors allow animals to move safely between feeding and nesting areas, reducing the risks associated with fragmented habitats and heavily developed landscapes.

In addition, adopting a more considered approach to maintenance can greatly benefit garden ecosystems UK. Avoiding chemical pesticides, allowing sections of vegetation to grow more naturally, and retaining features such as log piles, leaf litter, and mature trees all help to create more resilient and balanced habitats.

For those working in landscaping and grounds management, incorporating wildlife-friendly gardening UK principles into regular maintenance schedules can make a meaningful difference. Simple actions such as adjusting mowing regimes, protecting nesting areas during peak breeding season, and preserving water-edge vegetation all contribute to healthier ecosystems.

By taking a more mindful approach during this critical summer period, it is possible to support a wide range of species while still maintaining functional and well-managed outdoor spaces. In doing so, we help ensure that UK garden wildlife in June continues to thrive alongside carefully managed landscapes for years to come.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) sets out government planning policy for England. It was published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (now the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG)) on 27 March 2012 and can be downloaded from the MHCLG website.

The NPPF followed a commitment made in the 2010 Coalition Agreement to ‘publish and present to Parliament a simple and consolidated national planning framework covering all forms of development and setting out national economic, environmental and social priorities’. The then-Minister for Planning and Decentralisation, Greg Clark MP, suggested it introduced a simpler and more accessible approach to planning policy.

The framework replaces a wide range of previous planning policy statements and planning policy guidance (see Planning policy replaced by the NPPF). It is commonly cited as having reduced planning policy from over 1,000 pages to around 50, but in fact, unless specifically revoked by the framework, existing policies remain effective.

In 2012, the coalition government commissioned the Taylor Report, a further review of the remaining planning policy guidance. A complete set of the legislation, policy and guidance that underpins planning in England can be found on the government’s National Planning Practice Guidance website.

Principles

The NPPF dismantles the regional planning apparatus and introduces neighbourhood planning in order to create ‘ … a framework within which local people and their accountable councils can produce their own distinctive local and neighbourhood plans, which reflect the needs and priorities of their communities.’ The framework states in no uncertain terms that ‘the purpose of planning is to help achieve sustainable development……Development that is sustainable should go ahead, without delay.’

It defines three mutually dependent dimensions to sustainable development:

• Economic
• Social
• Environmental

The framework sets out 12 core principles that should underpin plan making and decision taking which are presented in summary below.

Plan making and decision making:

• Genuinely plan-led.
• Should be a creative exercise, not just one of scrutiny.
• Proactive in driving and supporting sustainable development.
• Should seek and secure high quality.
• Take account of the diverse character of different areas.
• Should support the transition to a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy.
• Contribute to conserving and enhancing the natural environment and reducing pollution.
• Should encourage the use of brownfield land.
• Encourage mixed-use development.
• Should conserve heritage.
• Maximise the use of public transport, walking and cycling.
• Should support health, social and cultural wellbeing.

The framework then sets out detailed guidance under 13 subheadings that contribute to delivering sustainable development:

• Building a strong, competitive economy.
• Ensuring the vitality of town centres.
• Supporting a prosperous rural economy.
• Promoting sustainable transport.
• Supporting high-quality communications infrastructure.
• Delivering a wide choice of high-quality homes.
• Requiring good design.
• Promoting healthy communities.
• Protecting Green Belt land.
• Meeting the challenge of climate change, flooding and coastal change.
• Conserving and enhancing the natural environment.
• Conserving and enhancing the historic environment.
• Facilitating the sustainable use of minerals.

Local plans

Local plans should be prepared by each local authority for its area. They should contribute to the achievement of sustainable development and set out over a 15-year time horizon ‘…the opportunities for development and clear policies on what will or will not be permitted and where…’

The framework proposes proactive engagement and collaboration with neighbourhoods, local organisations and businesses as well as co-operation with neighbouring authorities, public, voluntary and private sector organisations. It also proposes improving the efficiency of the application process through pre-application engagement by the applicant with the local authority, other consenting bodies and the local community. This should include discussing what information should be submitted as part of the application.

The framework sets out strategic priorities that should be included in local plans and makes clear that local plans will be examined by an independent inspector. Proposed developments that are in accordance with an up to date local plan should be approved without delay, whilst those that conflict with an up to date local plan should be refused (unless material considerations indicate otherwise).

This puts an emphasis on the local plan being up to date. The framework states that If a plan is absent, silent or out of date, permission should be granted, unless there are significant and demonstrable reasons not to grant permission. Local authorities were given a 12-month transition period to ensure that existing plans conform with the framework. However, when the transition period came to an end in March 2013, just half of the local authorities had adopted local plans in place and the Planning Inspectorate revealed that only 7% of those local plans complied with the requirements of the NPPF (ref. Planning Resource).

Neighbourhood planning

Parishes and neighbourhood forums are given the power to develop a neighbourhood plan for their neighbourhood. Neighbourhood plans must conform with the strategic policies in the local plan but take precedence over non-strategic policies in the local plan where they are in conflict.

Parishes and neighbourhood forums are given the power to grant planning permission for developments through Neighbourhood Development Orders and Community Right to Build Orders. Neighbourhood Development Orders and Community Right to Build Orders require a local referendum. Where a planning application conflicts with a neighbourhood plan planning permission will not normally be granted.

Criticisms

A number of significant concerns have been raised about the framework and its implementation:

• There may be unintended consequences resulting from such a significant change being made so quickly.
• There is ambiguity about the precise meaning of phrases such as ‘sustainability’.
• The framework says little about spatial planning or place making.
• It is questionable whether there are adequate resources available to implement the changes that the framework brings about.
• There is a lack of guidance for local communities.
• It is not clear how the framework tackles the lack of housing.
• It is not clear whether local plans will be able to retain control over development.

The Taylor Report has come very close on the heels of the National Planning Policy Framework and there are concerns that the planning system could be thrown into disarray. Some campaigners have described the findings of the review as giving the go ahead for a bonfire of planning rules, creating a charter for development and putting the countryside at risk.

In April 2014, the all-party Commons Communities and Local Government Committee launched an inquiry into the operation of the NPPF. The inquiry found weaknesses in the NPPF and proposed a number of changes that could be made to strengthen it. See NPPF inquiry for more information. In March 2015, a survey of residential developers and housing associations by accountancy and business advisory firm BDO found that 52% per cent felt the NPPF had made no difference, 19% per cent said it had inhibited the process and only 29% believed it had been helpful.

Reform

On 7 December 2015, the Department for Communities and Local Government launched a consultation seeking views on changes to the NPPF to support the delivery of new homes, including low cost homes for first time buyers. See Consultation on proposed changes to national planning policy for more information.

In April 2016, the Communities & Local Government (CLG) Committee published ‘Department for Communities and Local Government’s consultation on national planning policy’ in which they called for a comprehensive review of the NPPF before the end of the Parliament, pointing out that there had been, ‘…no robust, objective or evidence-based monitoring, evaluation or review’ since it was first published in 2012.On 30 January 2018, in a letter to local authorities, the Chief Planning Officer confirmed that the NPPF was being revised to implement the planning reform package set out in the housing White Paper, the Planning for the right homes in the right places consultation and the announcements made in the 2017 Autumn Budget.

Overhaul announcement

On 5 March 2018, Prime Minister Theresa May launched the overhaul of the NPPF, aiming to maximise the use of land, strengthen Green Belt protections and place a greater emphasis on converting planning permissions into built homes. Mrs May said the cost of housing, both for ownership and rent, was reinforcing economic divisions and leading to growing social immobility, with public sector workers unable to take jobs in certain parts of the country. She said; “The result is a vicious circle from which most people can only escape with help from the bank of mum and dad. Talking to voters during last year’s election campaign, it was clear that many people, particularly younger people, are angry about this … They’re right to be angry.”

Pending a consultation, May said the existing NPPF will be overhauled with up to 80 proposals first put forward in 2017 being implemented. The key measures include:

• 10% of homes on major sites should be available for affordable home ownership.
• Builders should be more open about affordable housing commitments at the planning stage.
• Before issuing future planning permission, local authorities will be able to take into account the speed with which a developer builds on a site. Councils will also be able to consider revoking planning permission after two years if the building has not begun.
• Councils will have to adopt a new nationwide standard showing housing need in their areas.
• Infrastructure will need to be considered at the pre-planning stage.
• Ancient woodland and aged trees will get specific protection.
• Homeowners will be able to add two storeys to existing properties.

But May’s accusation of obstruction on the part of some councils led to a strong response from the chair of the Local Government Association Gary Porter, who said: “The truth is that councils are currently approving nine in 10 planning applications, which shows that the planning system is working well and is not a barrier to building. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of planning refusals are upheld on appeal, vindicating councils’ original decisions. It is completely wrong, therefore, to suggest the country’s failure to build the housing it desperately needs is down to councils.”

Furthermore, Porter said that the government’s proposal to appoint independent inspectors where councils were considered to be blocking housing development was “unhelpful and misguided.” He also called for councils to be able to borrow to build their own houses, a proposal in line with Labour’s housing policy, and one that has been rejected by government. In response to May’s speech, shadow Housing Minister John Healey said; “This housing crisis is made in Downing Street. It’s time the Tories changed course, and backed Labour’s long-term plan to build the genuinely affordable homes.”

Revised National Planning Policy Framework

In July 2018, following the public consultation, the government published a revised NPPF. The new framework focusses on the following key areas:

• Promoting high-quality design for new homes and places.
• Offering stronger protection for the environment.
• Constructing the right number of homes in the right places.
• Focusing on greater responsibility and accountability of councils and developers for housing delivery.

The revised framework will enable councils to refuse planning permission for any development that does not prioritise design quality or adequately complement its surroundings. It will also encourage councils to adopt new visual tools to promote better design and quality.

Councils will be able to use the new ‘rulebook’ to calculate the housing need for their community and deliver more housing when it is most needed. From November 2018, a Housing Delivery Test will be available, helping to drive up the number of homes delivered in an area. In terms of the environment, the framework was updated to further protect biodiversity by more closely aligning the planning system with Defra’s 25-year Environment Plan. Not only does this plan protect habitats, it also emphasises air quality protection in relation to development proposals.

Secretary Of State

Secretary of State for Communities, Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP said; “Fundamental to building the homes our country needs is ensuring that our planning system is fit for the future. This revised planning framework sets out our vision of a planning system that delivers the homes we need. I am clear that quantity must never compromise the quality of what is built, and this is reflected in the new rules.”

However, the revised NPPF received some criticism, with the NFB chief executive Richard Beresford suggesting that; “The government has missed a golden opportunity to put this country on the road to addressing its housing crisis and solving the broken housing market.” John Acres, RTPI President, said; “…we must recognise the significant pressure the new NPPF requirements will put on local authority planning teams. It is imperative that chief executives, council leaders and politicians resource planning departments sufficiently, particularly as they will now be held more accountable for delivery under the housing delivery test and are expected to carry out more regular reviews of their plans.”

Find out how we can help you or get in touch to find out more.

The Landscape Institute believes that a no-deal Brexit could be disastrous for the landscape profession in UK and Europe. This would further exacerbate our current skills shortages.

Talent and recognition

Around 40% of employers in our sector are already suffering skills shortages. The impact on future talent is a major concern. 8% of our Landscape Institute members are citizens of EU countries, outside of the UK and the profession cannot afford to lose them.

One of our major concerns is that we may lose recognition of our professional qualification across Europe with a no-deal Brexit. This would hamper UK professionals’ ability to provide services to European markets.

Graduate retention

Restricted movement limits the number of international graduates who will be able to stay in the UK to meet skills shortages and add value to our country.

Long-term, graduate retention is also a major problem. 30% of students who joined UK-based landscape courses in 2018 were international, with 7% being from the EU. Therefore, restrictions on visas and free movement will limit the number of graduates who will be able to stay in the UK, meet skills shortages, and add value to our country.

Trade restrictions

Any restrictions on trade with Europe would make landscape practice much harder, as many of the materials landscape professionals use are sourced from the EU. For example, live plants or stone products from places like Italy.

Just like food, plants can’t afford to be held up in a lorry park in Kent, France or Belgium for days. It would take many years for British nurseries to grow similar trees, and for British quarries to be re-opened, in order to rebuild an adequate supply chain.

Any extra administrative burdens for the supply of landscape products into the UK will make them much less attractive to both public and private sector investors and developers.

Economic effects

If landscape professionals are forced out of work, the long-term effects could take decades to correct.

Less money in the economy means there will be less development, including housing. This is a current government priority and what development does happen will be cheaper, less well designed, and less green.

If landscape professionals are forced out of work by an economic downturn, the long-term effects on public health, air quality, flood risk, and climate change could take decades to correct.

To find out about how ProHort can help you, get in touch now.

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Tree related subsidence is defined as the gradual caving in or sinking of an area of land and can be caused by a range of different factors. These can include:

• Poor ground quality or an inadequate building foundation,
• Historical mining,
• The erosion of soil which results in an underground opening,
• Excessive levels of water washing soil away from the surrounding area,
• Clay soil shrinkage and heave due to the changing weather in summer and winter,
• Trees being located within the close proximity of the building.

Have You Got Issues With Tree Related Subsidence?

Trees roots can spread by up to three times the height of the tree which means that, whilst a lot of buildings are not affected by the growth of these roots, those built on shrinkable clay soils and located near to a tree are at significant risk of experiencing subsidence.

Clay soil is highly absorbent, allowing it to take in water and expand during wet weather. The soil then dries out in the warmer weather and shrinks, meaning that there is a constant heave and shrink cycle within areas consisting predominantly of a clay soil type. Trees can then exacerbate the shrinkage of clay soil by drawing the water out of the soil, causing the ground underneath buildings to shrink significantly and resulting in movement within the property foundations. This movement then goes on to cause cracks in both external and internal property walls.

When dealing with a tree that is causing subsidence, it is always necessary to consider the risk of soil heave. This can occur as a result of the clay soil returning to its former moisture level and expanding once the tree has been removed, causing any foundations laid over the soil to lift and potentially cause further damage.

In order to cater for this, each individual occurrence of tree subsidence should be considered based upon a variety of factors including the nature of the surrounding ground, the quality of the buildings foundations, the span and depth of the trees roots in comparison to the building and the typical variations in conditions throughout summer and winter. The potential removal of a tree that is causing subsidence should always be considered on a case by case basis and is highly recommended to be carried out by a professional arboriculturist.

Contact Us

At ProHort, our team have over 20 years of arboricultural experience and are experienced in identifying subsidence resulting from the presence of trees. Find out more about our Tree Subsidence Reports service, or why not get in touch for more information?

Trees are a natural asset and their benefit to the visual environment can be easily understated. We may think of a typical English countryside view with rolling fields, hedges and specimen Oak trees dotted around. Find out why tree selection is so important below:

But do we ever think of the other benefits trees present to the local fauna and flora?

Trees absorb all sorts of toxins from the air, which is why when you walk around a wood the air always smells and feels that little bit fresher and cleaner. An acre of mature woodland can provide enough oxygen for 18 people and that makes trees pretty important! They also provide significant sources of food and shelter for small woodland animals, birds and insects, all of which are imperative to our ecosystem.

When we pick a tree for a site or our garden, we will want a specimen tree or at least one that will be a real feature as it grows. We should, however, consider a number of things. These include; the size, the spread and height, when and if the tree has visible flowers, the scent, the colour of the leaves in each of the seasons and whether the tree will improve the surrounding environment, perhaps by creating a food source for birds or other small animals.

There are also other types of interest that a tree can bring to its surroundings – bark can be of great interest. Corylus avellana ‘contorta’ has twisted stems and looks great but especially so in the winter when it has no leaves. Whereas, Acer davidii, also known as the “Snake bark Acer”, looks amazing with green and white serpentine stripes on its bark.

Other trees, such as the Tulip tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, is a larger tree which has tulip like flowers when it matures at around the age of 40 years. As can be seen from this tree, sometimes planting a tree is a long-term investment and perhaps even for the benefit of the next generation. This is especially true if you are planting trees that don’t become mature for in excess of 50 years such as the Oak, Beech and Sequoiadendron giganteum that can live for more than 3,000 years!

More commonly found trees suited for planting in a normal sized back garden can include the Amelanchier x grandiflora ‘Ballerina’. This is a pretty specimen tree and well worth the space, with lovely blossom in the spring and bright red foliage as it emerges. It also has small dark purple or black fruits in the autumn, which are edible. Another bonus that this tree brings is the fabulous bright red and yellow colours that the leaves turn in the autumn. A truly great tree for a small garden.

An evergreen tree that is another great choice is the Magnolia grandiflora, a lovely tree which has fabulous white or cream flowers. This tree looks great

and gives additional privacy all year round which is especially important when your garden is overlooked by neighbours!

One final tree we couldn’t not mention is the Davidia involucrata, commonly known as the Handkerchief tree. This is a beautiful tree. Discovered in 1869 and introduced to England in 1904, it has large white bracts that are followed by large oval fruits. If you have the space, a sheltered position and fertile soil this tree will prove to a real spectacle within your garden!

If you need any advice on the choice of trees for your site or garden, and especially so if you want the perfect specimen tree, please do contact us and we will be happy to advise.

ProHort also provide other tree related services, including tree surveys and tree preservation order applications and appeals. Why not get in touch to find out more about how we can help you?

Soil contamination occurs when the level of pollutants, including chemicals, man-made waste, radioactive materials and salts, is higher than the normally expected level. This then results in the deterioration of the natural properties of the soil, as well as the environment, comfort and health of individuals being adversely affected.

Soil contamination can be caused by a wide range of different factors and events which can all have differing effects on the soil itself. The most common events that result in soil contamination include the introduction of industrial waste into the soil, leaking underground storage tanks or contaminated water seeping into the soil and an excessive use of pesticides or herbicides on the land. Further activities that can contribute to soil contamination include mining, the introduction of asbestos as the result of construction works and the storage of fuel or lead. The presence of Japanese knotweed in an area of soil can also result in that soil being considered as contaminated.

Is Your Soil Contaminated?

If your soil becomes contaminated this can have various residual effects depending upon the environment that the soil is situated in.

In agricultural and rural environments, the fertility of the soil can be reduced resulting in the inability to grow crops and other plants. This reduction in crop yield can then have a further impact on the level of soil erosion and can alter the flora and fauna that can be found in that area. This, ultimately, can result in a change to the entire ecosystem and reduce levels of biodiversity.

Industrial environments will, again, see a decrease in the amount of vegetation found within the area and the release of gases and radioactive rays that could be detrimental to health. Public health may also be at risk in urban areas, as a result of clogged drains, the release of gases and pollution of water sources resulting from soil contamination.

Once soil on your land has been identified as contaminated this can also have detrimental implications for any construction or development plans for that land, as the legal responsibility for that contaminated land lies with the property owner. As a property owner, you will be expected to treat the contamination either before you obtain planning permission for the development, or as part of the development itself. This can result in significant additional costs and delays to development.

If you are planning to develop on your land and suspect that the soils on that land might be contaminated, you should always ensure that the soil is tested and analysed before development begins. This will allow for the correct method of treatment or removal to be actioned and will give you the peace of mind that the costs involved are an absolute necessity to ensure that the development work runs as smoothly as possible.

It is also recommended that a survey for Japanese knotweed is completed by a certified Japanese knotweed surveyor to identify any potential invasive weeds on the site and to ensure an appropriate removal plan is put in to place before development starts.

Contact Us

ProHort can provide you with soil testing and analysis to identify any contaminated soil, whether that be industrial or agricultural. Why not give us a call on 01782 479479 for more information?

The Hidden Value of a Landscape Visual Impact Assessment

A Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) is a tool that you may not have considered while working towards your current planning application. Below are three key benefits of a Landscape Visual Impact Assessment:

Environmental

LVIA’s are synonymous with wind turbine and solar panel developments – they have often been used to display the placement of these developments, as a superior way of presenting the visual impact to the public. n addition an LVIA will show other environmental factors. Statistically, road developments are ‘the single most destructive element’ as they can potentially cause animals to lose access to water or nesting areas. If you were developing through a wooded or natural area, an LVIA would visually outline the possible impacts on wildlife, which may not appear on a standard traditional plan.

Social

When individuals are opposed to environmental upgrade developments, 50% object solely because of their attitudes towards the ‘perceived unity of the environment or the personal attitude towards the effects of wind turbines on landscape aesthetics.’ An LVIA uses landscape visualisation to show the exact changes that will affect the landscape near to a development. By having a visual representation, it is both easier for individuals to discuss their objections to a development, and, following on from that, for a compromise to be reached.

Economic

An LVIA has the advantage of giving you the chance to explore multiple options or consider multiple options for a development. Would, for example, your development look different with six homes instead of four? How would the spacing be affected? A detailed LVIA lets you explore these multiple options in a visually engaging way. 

LVIAs are essential to any development application, If you require any further information phone ProHort Limited  on 01782 4769 479.