Protecting Darrington's Trees
Darrington is fortunate to have many mature and established trees which contribute to the character and appearance of the village. A number of trees and groups of trees in the village are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs).
A Tree Preservation Order is made by the local planning authority to protect important trees from being lost or damaged. A TPO can apply to an individual tree, a group of trees, an area containing trees or a woodland. It can apply to trees of any species, including hedgerow trees, although regularly maintained hedgerows and shrubs are not covered by a TPO.
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Working on a Protected Tree
If a tree is protected by a TPO, prior consent from Wakefield Council is required before carrying out work such as pruning or felling. Similar controls can also apply to trees within a Conservation Area.
Wakefield Council provides an online application process for proposed works to protected trees. Once a TPO tree-work application has been validated, the Council advises that a decision can normally be expected within 8 weeks.
There are some exceptions, including the removal of deadwood, fallen tree sections, and snapped or hanging branches. Wakefield Council recommends that landowners notify the Council before carrying out such work, where possible, so that any concerns about unauthorised tree works can be addressed.
Finding Protected Trees in Darrington
Wakefield Council's Where I Live service allows residents to search by postcode or address and view local information, including Tree Preservation Orders.
To check whether a tree at a particular location is covered by a TPO, you can check here.
Enter the relevant postcode or house number and street name, then look under the local area information for Tree Preservation Orders.
If you need confirmation that a particular tree is protected, or would like a copy of a specific TPO, Wakefield Council advises contacting its Development Control team at [email protected].
Reporting Unauthorised Tree Work
If you believe work is being carried out without the necessary permission on a tree protected by a TPO, you can report it to Wakefield Council by emailing [email protected]. If available, include the TPO reference number and details of the location.
Unauthorised work to a protected tree is an offence and can result in significant fines. Wakefield Council states that fines can range from £2,500 to £20,000, depending on the offence, with unlimited fines possible in serious cases.
For the latest information and guidance, please refer to:
Wakefield Council – Protected Trees and Tree Preservation Orders