• Consultation extended until Sunday 7 May
• Islanders to feedback on what should come under ‘routine tree management’
• A list of exceptions will specify which operations can go ahead without planning permission
The Minister for Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf, has extended a consultation on proposed tree protection process and exceptions for a further two weeks.
The consultation is now open until Sunday 7 May. See the consultation here: Tree protection process (gov.je)
The Minister is particularly seeking views on what work should be defined as ‘routine tree management’ and therefore allowed to continue without the need for planning permission.
Other issues that have been raised as a result of the consultation so far include whether trees in the built-up area (as defined in the Bridging Island Plan) should have a greater level of protection than those in the countryside, and whether work on large areas of woodland should be controlled under ‘tree management plans’, rather than by applications for each individual operation.
Paper versions of the consultation are available in all parish halls for Islanders to complete and send as a written submission.
In 2022, the States Assembly approved plans to better protect trees by bringing works to them under the definition of development within Jersey’s Planning and Building Law.
When the revised law comes into effect, some operations to or on trees will require permission before they can proceed. A list of exceptions will specify which operations can go ahead without permission.
Minister for Environment, Deputy Jonathan Renouf, said: “Following feedback from tree surgeons and those working in the industry, I have extended the consultation on tree protection process by another two weeks to ensure everyone has the opportunity to share their views and suggestions.
“I’d like to reassure those who are concerned about the proposals that I do aim for the policy to enable most routine tree work to continue as before, without the need for planning permission. While this is a framework for stronger protection for all trees in the Island, we will be putting together a series of exceptions to the policy - which I ask Islanders to review and input on in the consultation.
“I am keen to hear more views on how we might define ‘routine tree management’ and I do acknowledge that the proposals for exceptions which are currently listed are too narrow – please be reassured that this is not the final exhaustive list. The consultation seeks feedback on this, and the list of exceptions will undoubtedly be revised once we have been able to review all the responses.”
Government of Jersey News Release