Council reinforces commitment to public safety with updated tree risk strategy

Cheshire East Council has approved an updated strategy for managing tree safety – strengthening inspection processes and reaffirming its commitment to public safety and the health of trees and woodlands.

The updated corporate tree risk management strategy was approved by the council’s environment and communities committee today on 26th March.

It incorporates the latest national guidance, legislation and case law and further ensures environmental and biodiversity considerations are built into all aspects of tree risk management.

Since the council’s original strategy was adopted in 2021, significant progress has been made in tree risk management, including clearer processes for managing risks from falling trees and branches, and the creation of a Tree Risk Management Board that brings together officers from multiple services across the council.

The council has adopted the nationally recognised Quantified Tree Risk Assessment (QTRA) methodology, as well as the Plan–Do–Check–Act approach aligned with the National Tree Safety Group framework.

Investment has been made in tree risk management and new leadership and specialist job roles have been created, while council-managed land has been zoned into risk categories and enforcement powers are being used where privately-owned trees are a significant risk.

The first inspection cycle set out in 2021 has been fully completed – with ongoing programmed inspections now in place – and more than 40 staff have received tree inspection training, with a further 14 receiving specialist training. 

The council’s ongoing commitment to managing tree risk reflects the lessons learned from the tragic death of Mr Chris Hall at The Carrs Park, Wilmslow in 2020.

Mrs Fiona Hall has recently renewed her call for the government to ensure all councils meet their obligations relating to tree risk – a position Cheshire East Council fully supports.

Councillor David Jefferay, chair of Cheshire East Council’s environment and communities committee, said:

“No-one should suffer the loss Mr Hall’s family have experienced through failure of an inspection and maintenance regime.

“While no tree risk strategy can ever fully remove the risks, especially those caused by unpredictable natural weather events, it is our responsibility to ensure that everything which can be managed, is managed to the highest possible standard.

“I have enormous respect for Mrs Hall’s continued campaigning for what has become known as ‘Chris’ Law’, and the council fully supports her call for clearer national expectations so that all councils meet their responsibilities.

“This updated strategy reflects the lessons we have learned and strengthens our commitment to public safety, while recognising the many environmental and wellbeing benefits that trees bring to Cheshire East.

“We also recognise the importance of continually improving our approach and have identified the areas where further focus is needed, which will be actively addressed through our Tree Risk Management Board.”