Tree identification

[ac99]

Hi, we need help identifying a tree near our property as it could affect the foundations for building work we are planning. I've taken some pics, I'd be really grateful if anyone can help identify the tree, what do you think it is? Thanks. Adam

[Treeation]

Turkish hazel Corylus colurna

[ac99]

Thanks for your quick reply. Our structural engineer seems to think it is an elm - which is a big problem for foundations. What is it that distinguishes it from an elm?

[AA Teccie (Paul)]

Alongside several other features, and hence why an arboriculturist should be engaged, the leaf base isn't asymmetrical (see  https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/common-non-native-trees/english-elm/ )

[Stere]

Why would  a small street  tree like that be a big problem for foundations, and are elms extra bad?

 

Or is it a case of trying to find some excuse to get rid of tree  because don't like having a tree there?......

 

 

[ac99]

Elms (and also Willows so I'm told) suck up a lot of water from surrounding ground which can cause shrinkage to the ground around which is where the issues come from a foundation perspective.

 

I love the tree, its great, well established & mature, I don't want rid of it. I'm just hoping its not an elm because the engineer seems to think we need foundations over 6ft deep because of it!

[AA Teccie (Paul)]

4 minutes ago, Stere said:

Why would  a small street  tree like that be a big problem for foundations, and are elms extra bad?

 

Or is it a case of trying to find some excuse to get rid of tree  because don't like having a tree there?......

 

 

Small trees often make bigger trees and, in the right hands, knowledge is power and can result in correct foundation construction being engineered to avoid future problems. IME Elms are on the "be cautious" list for surveyors / engineers etc...even though less frequently encountered these days  

 

The tree looks great and hopefully it's value in enhancing the street scene  is recognized.

 

Cheers,

Paul

 

[AA Teccie (Paul)]

The tree appears to be situated in the highway / footpath / verge and hence the Local Authority should be able to confirm the species...along with being involved in any decision making about the future of the tree...or rather "the building."

 

Regards,

Paul 

[Stere]

Pretty sure its a turkish hazel matches the images:

 

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=turkish+hazel&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjojuj0zaHdAhXID8AKHewsCLIQ_AUICigB&biw=1680&bih=916

 

Also they are a species used as street trees apparently

 

https://www.barcham.co.uk/products/corylus-colurna/

Quote

In recent years, Turkish Hazel has been selected as the tree of choice for avenues, parkland and urban areas over Lime trees, as it does not suffer the aphid drip associated with some of the Tilia species and produces a wonderfully regular crown which is desirable for mass planting. 

Mature Height: 20m+

 

[AA Teccie (Paul)]

2nd'ed!

[ac99]

Thanks for all your input so far, any other opinions welcome!