Tree care and urban growth work together in Glasgow
Recognised as Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is a vibrant urban hub with historic roots, cultural significance and a growing reputation for sustainability. With over 600,000 residents and a total area of more than 17,000 hectares, the city seamlessly blends historic architecture, industrial heritage and green urban planning. As regeneration and development continue at pace across the city, from city centre redevelopments to suburban expansions, the need for comprehensive tree surveys in Glasgow has become increasingly important for planning, conservation and safety.
Despite its industrial past, Glasgow has emerged as one of the greenest cities in the UK, earning accolades for its ambitious tree planting schemes and commitment to urban forestry. As early as the 19th century, Glasgow became known as the “Dear Green Place,” and the modern city still reflects that vision through its 90+ parks and gardens. Notable spaces like Kelvingrove Park, Pollok Country Park, and Glasgow Green offer residents and visitors a healthy dose of greenery within a bustling urban landscape. These spaces, alongside mature tree-lined streets and pockets of ancient woodland, highlight the importance of tree care and management in Glasgow’s continued urban growth.
The local tree population in Glasgow includes a diverse mix of species, from native Scottish broadleaves to ornamental trees planted during Victorian times. Trees in Glasgow serve vital functions: improving air quality, reducing heat island effects, enhancing biodiversity, and contributing to the city’s aesthetic value.
Tree management in Glasgow
Trees create responsibilities and potential issues for developers and landowners. Trees on or near development sites may be protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or fall within conservation areas, both of which are subject to planning control. Without appropriate documentation, such as tree surveys, planning permission applications may be delayed or refused outright.
Glasgow City Council enforces robust planning policies around trees, requiring arboricultural input for most developments that could impact them. Tree surveys are essential in these cases, as they help clarify the impact of a proposed development and determine how to preserve valuable trees. When developments are proposed near existing trees, planning officers will expect to see a detailed BS5837 tree survey – the industry-standard inspection designed to assess tree constraints and inform sustainable site planning.
Tree surveys: steps in the process
A BS5837 tree survey begins with a site visit from a qualified arboricultural consultant who will inspect all trees on or near the development site. Each tree is assessed in terms of species, dimensions, structural condition, and anticipated life expectancy. From there, the trees are categorised based on their value and suitability for retention. This categorisation helps determine which trees should be retained, which may be relocated, and which – only when justifiably unavoidable – could be removed.
Tree surveys in Glasgow play a pivotal role in the planning process. Experienced arborists will always seek to retain high-value trees, working alongside architects and planning consultants to design developments that integrate trees wherever feasible. However, where trees present significant constraints to safe or practical construction, mitigation options such as transplanting or compensatory planting are considered. Removal of trees is never recommended lightly and will only be supported if there is clear justification backed by the survey findings and if replanting measures are agreed upon.
All findings from tree surveys are compiled in detailed tree reports which include a schedule of trees, a Tree Constraints Plan outlining root protection areas, and guidance on how to avoid damaging retained trees during construction. The report may also contain an Arboricultural Impact Assessment and an Arboricultural Method Statement, both of which provide crucial information to satisfy local authority planning departments. With these in place, planning applications in Glasgow that involve trees can progress with greater clarity and reduced risk of delay.
Beyond planning support, a tree survey Glasgow is often required for public safety and estate management. Property owners, schools, housing associations and other land managers may request periodic tree inspections to address tree health, structural integrity and identify potential hazards. With Glasgow’s varied climate including high winds and plentiful rainfall, routine monitoring of tree health is essential to prevent damage to property or public safety risks, as well as ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Do you need tree surveys in Glasgow?
Our arboricultural consultancy delivers tree survey services in Glasgow and the surrounding areas of Scotland’s central belt, offering expert advice tailored to the specific needs of each client. We provide BS5837 surveys for planning applications, tree risk assessments, and ongoing management plans for residential and commercial properties, and are engaged by commercial clients, householders and public sector clients. With a thorough understanding of local planning policy and conservation regulations, we provide detailed reports that meet all necessary requirements and help streamline the planning process.
If your project is affected by existing trees (protected or not) now is the time to arrange a professional tree inspection in Glasgow. Our experienced tree experts are on hand to assist you from the initial site visit through to report submission, helping you to make informed decisions. Get in touch with our friendly team on the number at the top of this page or contact us today to request a free quote.