7.5 Appropriate tree planting locations

Trees should be planted in, but are not limited to, the following locations. These are listed in order of preference:

1. Within the carriageway, in build outs or at grade. This will keep footways clear and continuous, providing traffic calming and visually break long rows of parked vehicles. On low traffic streets, such as mews, tree pits can be constructed at the same level of the carriageway.
2. Grass verges and ‘leftover’ green spaces adjacent to carriageway. On busier roads, a tree lined verge offers an effective way of separating the people and traffic and provides space for roots growth. A minimum 1.1 metre verge is required.
3. Edge of footway. Where other options are not feasible, trees should be planted on the edge of the footway. A minimum clear width of 2 metres should be provided to allow space for wheelchairs and buggies, this can be reduced to a minimum of 1.6 metre adjacent to the tree. Tree pits, with a minimum dimension of 1 metre squared must be provided. These must incorporate root barriers and deflectors to protect adjacent utilities and foundations.
4. Grass verges behind footway. Trees could be planted in verges, or hard spaces, to the rear of the footway where space exists and no other options are suitable. Where this land sits outside of the highway boundary, consideration should be given to the long-term maintenance strategy and the impact on the adjacent highway.