Ian wrote:
<I have tried to encourage officers / planners that inspection is both
required and reasonable as part of the tree protection scheme, but it
appears
to fall on fallow ground. I would be interested in your or anyone's
thoughts,
on ways you have managed to encourage assessments both during and post
development.>
Whilst at Exeter City I approached the enforcement team and told them that I
could help them with their condition monitoring. I helped them set up a
scheme where all sites were inspected on a regular basis. They used the
principles to monitor other non tree conditions. The offer of help was
positive and resulted in team playing and an improved relationship between
the sections.
This isn't rocket science and Mr Nicholson even runs a course setting out
the best way to do this. I believe that Arbs often forget that they are
employed for their knowledge, advice AND to provide a tree service for their
LA. I think that means you need to provide a FULL service including some
enforcement monitoring. Once you've built a system it becomes much easier
to fit it into your working week. A big part of this is how you sell it to
your colleagues. Unfortunately in most LA's there is a 'it's not my job'
culture. You can't expect the enforcement team to be particularly motivated
to tree issues they probably have enough to do.
Imaginative thinking helps to shed the negativity often witnessed in
councils. My move to the dark side has only reinforced this opinion I'm
afraid. It is possible and it does have difficulties but its very rewarding
when you get it right.
Dom
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