Tree root protection issues?
Thomas James
Impact and Engagement Officer - Helping businesses at STFC make the most of their stories. Passionate about marketing, engineering and green energy projects.
Do you have a tree root protection order in place on your build and not sure how to create a surface compliant with the TPO? We have a solution...
A TPO or tree root protection order is generally placed on urban areas where there are a number of mature trees that require protection, especially in urban development. Non-compliance with said orders can result in a fine of up to ￡20,000.00.
Most tree roots spread to the equivalent and sometimes twice the crown of the tree (the diameter of the top if presumed to be a circle). An Arboricultural officer for the local council planning department will confirm the trees to be protected and the methodology to do so. Most roots are found at approximately 600mm below the existing surface level and therefore it would be impossible not to damage them during normal construction processes. Planning applications can be made far more acceptable to Arboricultural officers if a permeable and flexible surfacing is laid either independently or with a further supported and flexible layer.
A tree root protection layer can be laid on a 20mm screed level and filled with clean stone. The EcoGrid Web Cell grid comes in both 100mm and 200mm depth options of 31 square metre sections and is pinned with our EcoGrid ‘J’ pins in place. A 115 g geotextile membrane (NW8) is laid over the top of this and a further 20mm screed of 10mm clean stone laid over this as a bedding for the load bearing EcoGrid tiles, E40 for light to medium traffic and E50 for heavy duty traffic. In the case of grass finished, the S50 grid is laid for light to medium traffic and E50 for heavy duty traffic.
Urbanisation is increasing, particularly near to mature trees. Requirements for access roads, private driveways, overspill car parks and vehicle hard standing areas are constantly increasing. However, traditional methods of construction are not acceptable in these circumstances due to the damage caused to tree feeder roots, which weaken or kill the trees.
The surfacing can be used for all areas that require a load bearing, aesthetic and very permeable surface for loadings from a pedestrian use to articulated lorries turning in an external warehousing facility. Pathways, emergency access routes, domestic driveways, commercial car parks to name just a few applications.
Once the surface has been excavated and prepared, the grids are swiftly laid on the screed level, curves are formed with our unique curving piece. A retaining edge strip and secure anchor system is available to form a barrier, impeding the travelling of infill material away from the surface (only necessary if you want to 'override' the grid surface with stone).
So what are you waiting for? If you want to find out more just get in touch. Feel free to share your own experiences of solving tree root protection orders below...