Purpose

A review of the Council’s
existing tree and woodland management policy identified that it now
requires reviewing, and updating. This review work resulted in a
redevelopment of the existing documents to provide a new
progressive policy. Reflecting new national policy and better
aligned with current Kirklees’ commitments and corporate
goals.
 
Engagement and consultation has
been undertaken with the new document package now drawn together
into a finalised draft. Including Policy Statements, an updated
Risk Framework, Management Standards and Service
Standards.
 
This new, replacement, policy
suite now requires Cabinet consideration with a view making a
decision on:

-      
If the policy should be formally adopted.

-      
If adopted, delegating the authorisation of future
updates and revisions, to the Service Director for Highway and
Street Scene. To allow the document to be kept up to date and
aligned with any changes to national or local policies,
legislation, and guidance during the life cycle of the Council
Owned Tree and Woodland Management Policy. As per the review
schedule set out at section 14 of the new policy document
suite. 
 
Background Papers: Draft
Council Owned Tree and Woodland Management policy (with the draft
Tree Risk Framework, Management Standards, Service Standards
embedded within it). 

Content

RESOLVED – That the Council Owned
Tree and Woodland Management Policy be adopted and that authority
be delegated to the Service Director for Highways and Streetscene
to make any future updates to the policy document.