Agenda item

To receive and consider a revised Tree Policy for the Town Council and to make recommendations to the Policy, Governance & Finance Committee accordingly.

The Committee received and considered the revised Tree Policy, together with a verbal explanation of the amendments from the Biodiversity & Green Spaces Officer.

The Biodiversity & Green Spaces Officer explained the rationale behind the policy, highlighting the importance of having a clear and easily understood framework to support consistent decision-making, protect the Council’s financial position, and ensure public funds were used responsibly.

Members noted that the primary purpose of the policy was to ensure the safe, sustainable, and cost-effective management of trees under the Council’s control, balancing environmental stewardship with public safety and long-term maintenance responsibilities for the benefit of residents. Some members expressed concerns that the policy would not adequately support the most vulnerable members of the community.

A vote was taken on the acceptance of the policy without further amendment, with the following result:

For: 7
Against: 1

Recommended:

That, the revised Tree Policy be approved by the Policy, Governance & Finance Committee at its meeting on 2 February 2026.