Protected Trees in the Council Area

Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)

• What is a Tree Preservation Order?                                      
• Why Protect Trees?
• What types of trees are covered?                                          
• How are TPOs initiated?
• Are trees in a conservation area protected?
• Where are the TPOs and conservation areas in Newry, Mourne and Down?
• Can I carry out works to protected trees?
• Guide to TPOs

What is a Tree Preservation Order?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is a statutory protection afforded to trees under the Planning (Trees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015.

Why Protect Trees?

Trees can have a high amenity value and can make an important contribution to the environment, creating a varied, interesting and attractive landscape. They can help define the character of an area and create a sense of place. Trees also provide wildlife habitat and contribute to the health and well being of humans. TPOs are imposed in order to protect selected trees or woodland if their removal is likely to have a significant impact on the local environment and its enjoyment by the public.

The Council has a specific duty in relation to trees under the Planning (Trees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015.

What type of trees are covered?

The order can cover anything from a single tree to a woodland and all types of trees can be protected. Unless a woodland TPO is proposed, only trees over 3.5m in height are considered for a TPO. To be considered for a TPO, trees must be of a high amenity value and be in a reasonable condition.

Hedges, bushes and shrubs will not be protected.

How are TPOs initiated?

All requests for a TPO should be sent to our tree officer for consideration. Additionally, we may initiate TPOs as a result of a planning application or in response to any perceived threat.

Are trees in a Conservation Area protected?

Trees in a conservation area are subject to protection as though a TPO is in place. In a conservation area anyone proposing to carry out works to trees must apply to us. We will consider the proposal and respond within six weeks. Work cannot proceed until we have responded or the six week period has expired.

If we consider that the proposed works should not be carried out, we will impose a formal TPO to cover the specific trees. In exceptional circumstances, where there is imminent danger, the applicant may proceed, at risk, with works immediately but must submit evidence to us in the form of a report and photographs.

Where are the TPOs and conservation areas in Newry, Mourne and Down?

Information on the location and details of the TPOs and conservation areas within the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area can be accessed using our online TPO and Conservation Area Viewer.

Trees Protected through Planning Conditions

When granting Planning permission for development, we may in some cases require existing trees to be retained as a condition of the Planning Permission, even if they are not protected by a TPO or in a Conservation Area.  The prior consent of the Council may be required to undertake works or remove these tree(s).

Can I carry out works to protected trees?

If you wish to request a TPO or carry out works to protected trees you must first seek our consent by completing our online form available on the Planning Portal NI.

Guide to TPOs

For more information about TPOs, including frequently asked questions, you can read the following guidance documents:

Tree Preservation Orders A Guide to Protected Trees

Contact us

Downpatrick Office
Downshire Civic Centre
Ardglass Road
BT30 6GQ

Newry Office
Monaghan Row
Newry
BT35 8DJ

Council: 0330 137 4036
Email: ldp@nmandd.org.uk