The Technical Services Manager introduced the report of the Head of Environmental Services, as contained on pages 259 to 278 of the Book of Reports which sought approval of the Tree Policy as appended to the report at Appendix to be approved to progress to Cabinet.
Comments and questions were raised in respect of:
· Maintenance of trees
· Communication/notification of nature of works to residents/Ward and Parish Councillors in relation to work to be carried out
· Stock surveys
· Caselaw and expectations of the public
· Dangers of leaves on footpaths
RESOLVED:
1. That the report be noted; and
2. That in relation to 5.2 of the report, the Committee recognises caselaw and requests that Cabinet/Council consider public expectations relating to Council trees; and
3. That a frequently asked questions be drafted providing indication of the types of works conducted
Councillor N Furey introduced the report of the Corporate Director of Transformation, Housing & Resources, which sought approval of the proposed Tree Policy.
The Minute of the Executive Overview & Scrutiny Committee had been circulated prior to the meeting.
In reaching the decision below, Cabinet considered the report before it and the recommendations contained therein.
RESOLVED: A. That the Minute of the Executive Overview and Scrutiny Committee, set out in Appendix 4 to the report, be noted.
B. That the Tree Policy attached as Appendix 1 to the report be approved.
C. That delegated authority be given to the Head of Environmental Services in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder to make amendments to the Tree Policy during the lifetime of the document.
D. That the Tree Policy be reviewed and updated with new national legislation, including Biodiversity Net Gain, updates to the Climate Change Act 2008 or local policy, such as the update to the Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan that is published.