'Uproar' over tree removals sparks calls for new protection policy in Carlow
The proposal seeks clearer rules on tree maintenance amid concerns over tree removals and pruning across Carlow
Amid reports of "uproar" over the removal and pruning of trees across Carlow, calls have been made for a new tree protection policy.
People Before Profit–Solidarity councillor Adrienne Wallace tabled a motion at the April meeting of the Carlow Municipal District calling for the development of a formal policy to guide how trees are removed, maintained and planted.
Cllr Wallace called on Carlow County Council to "develop a Tree Protection policy that will include details on how to determine the grounds for the removal of any trees, how to remove them safely if needed, how to safely prune trees and identify which native tress are best for planting in different terrain."
She said that "the policy should be developed with input from independent environmental groups as well as council staff and should be circulated to all council staff upon completion."
The motion was seconded by Fine Gael councillor Fergal Browne.
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Wallace said the proposal may need to go before a Strategic Policy Committee, but explained it must first secure backing from the Municipal District.
She said there is often "uproar" when trees are cut down, moved or heavily pruned, and that a clear policy would help reassure the public that such works are carried out for valid and safety-related reasons.
Cllr Wallace added that the aim is to move away from an ad hoc approach and instead put detailed guidance on tree removal, pruning and planting on a more formal footing.
The motion was put to a vote by Mayor Paul Doogue and received unanimous support from councillors.
In a written reply to the motion, Carlow County Council said its tree protection approach is guided by policies in the County Development Plan, including commitments to “protect and manage existing woodlands, trees and hedgerows” and to safeguard trees of environmental, historical and amenity value, while discouraging the felling of mature trees for development.
The council also requires developers to submit Tree Management Plans to ensure existing planting is protected and incorporated into new developments.
It said tree removal or pruning is only carried out where there is "a threat to public safety" and, due to the specialist nature of the work, this is typically handled by qualified contractors.
The local authority added that it would not be appropriate to provide guidance to the public on tree felling or pruning due to health and safety and insurance considerations.
The council has also adopted the Tree Council of Ireland’s “Right Tree Right Place” policy as part of its Green Infrastructure strategy and is working to provide further training and guidance to staff and community groups.
Meanwhile, its Biodiversity Officer has completed a survey of almost 900 significant trees across the county, which will soon be published online and used to inform planning decisions.
Carlow County Council added that it has hosted a number of tree planting and maintenance workshops in recent years and recently distributed over 6,000 trees to landowners, schools and community groups as part of the Hares Corner Project, along with hundreds more to local groups.