BS5837 Adjusted RPA

[Gary Prentice]

Does anyone know of anyone doing root scanning in Manchester or the northwest? I just have an interest and wouldn't mind spending a day on site with someone to improve my knowledge and understanding of this subject.

[arb culture]

With regard to section 4.6.2 of BS5837, it is my view that the circular RPA for these sycamores should be adjusted (see attached photo). In this instance the trees are off site (the site is in the car park above) and the trees are located at least 1m below the retaining wall and the level of the site. I think it is unlikely that any roots growing under the footing of the retaining wall would be well established below the surface of the car park above? Surely the majority of roots will be in the garden below in the more favourable rooting conditions? What does anyone else think? Not sure how I can prove this either way without the aid of a mini digger, so can anyone point to any literature which deals with rooting characteristics in this kind of situation?

 

Hi Jacquemontii,

 

I agree with you that it is unlikely that major roots will be growing under the car park, but I also agree with others who have pointed out that nothing is certain.

 

So in the absence of further information I'd leave the RPA's circular if I was doing the constraints plan.

 

Would you be willing to tell us what you are wanting to do in the car park area? I ask because there might be above ground constraints which would prevent construction in that area anyway - irrespective of the RPA's.

 

Cheers