RPA Query

[HCR]

Just one small point - don't forget that in the 'stone, paper, scissors' world of the Town and Country Planning Act, planning permission beats TPOs.

 

Regarding the slope question, my experience is that roots tend to grow a fairly consistent distance from the stem (i.e. the absolute length of the root), so if the tree is on a slope, the horizontal distance of the root tip from the trunk will be smaller. I hope I understood your question correctly.

[Paul Barton]

It's my understanding that trees on steep slopes tend to have longer roots on the upward side - these roots are acting as tension ropes to effectively cling to the slope. Conversely on the downward slope the roots may be under compression so be shorter and thicker.

 

Mattheck's 'Body Language of Trees' book has some brief information on this p.89.

 

If this tree is an issue I'd suggest hand-digging or air-spading carefully around the slope to visually inspect the root morphology. Just be careful to not to remove too much soil around the tension side in case the tree loses cohesion with the soil totally!

[blimeyocrisis]

Thanks for the replies, certainly helps my thinking.

 

As regards planning overruling trees, I understand that part... if the PO would now actually see sense and realise the scheme is feasible instead of throwing loads of negatives at me. I think I'll try and use the TO to garner support and soften the stance of the PO...