Shrewsbury & Atcham
Borough Council

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will an application take to process?

In a conservation area the Council must let you know of a decision within six weeks of receiving the letter. If you have not heard anything after this you may assume that there is no objection to your proposals. The Council will normally contact you to let you know there is no objection.

The Council should deal with an application to work on a tree protected by a tree preservation order within eight weeks and will normally write to you within this time to let you know of their decision. If you have not heard anything within this time you can assume your application has been refused. If you are not happy with this decision you may appeal.

Is it possible to plant a tree in memory of a family member or friend?

Contact Parks department to discuss the matter 01743 231155.

Does the council have a list of tree surgeons?

No. The Council cannot recommend tree surgeons as it does not comply with competition regulations.

There is a dangerous tree in my neighbours garden, can the council do anything about it?

Yes. Under the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 the Council can inspect the tree and serve notice on the owners requiring them to make it safe, but only if the tree is an imminent threat to persons and property. Contact the Tree and Landscape Officer on 01743 281318 or email planningdevelopmentcontrol@shrewsbury.gov.uk .

Some workers are felling a tree in a conservation area or a tree which has a Tree Preservation Order on it. Whom do I contact to get the work stopped?

Contact the Tree and Landscape Officer on 01743 281318 who will check to see if the relevant permission has been given and take the appropriate action if not.

I think the road works on my street are damaging the trees. What should I do?

If you see any of the following things happening in the street contact the Parks department on 01743 231155.

• Mechanical digging under the canopy of the trees severed or damaged roots thicker than 25cm
• Roots left uncovered over night
• Machinery, spoil or chemicals under the canopy of trees
• Machines chained to trees
• Paving slabs leaning up against tree trunks

How does the council ensure trees are protected on development sites?

Trees are very vulnerable to damage whilst building works go on around them. The council seeks to ensure that trees that are retained on development sites are protected from damage as much as possible by requiring developers to take special precautions. New guidelines on protecting trees on development sites are currently being prepared.