Highways Tree Root Policy consultation

We are consulting on a new draft Highways Tree Root policy.

Barnet has a significant and varied tree population planted within the public highway and specifically on the footway network. We are responsible for approximately 30,000 street trees which have a significant positive impact on the quality of life for Barnet residents.

To maintain safer footways in the borough we plan to adopt a more strategic, cost-effective and sustainable approach through a defined Highways Tree Root (HTR) policy framework.

What we are consulting on

The Highway Tree Roots policy has been developed to enhance footway safety and improve accessibility while maintaining the quality of the street scene environment.

With this in mind, we are issuing the draft HTR policy and inviting comments, prior to final release and implementation. A summary of the policy is provided here and we have also provided an updated flow chart that shows the steps and timing for deciding on the future of a tree.

How to have your say:

Please take the time to read our read the summary of the policy, view the updated flow chart and the and the draft HTR policy and then complete our online questionnaire.

If you would like to request a paper questionnaire or another format please:

• email Highways.consultations@barnet.gov.uk or telephone 020 8359 4059.
• alternatively, you can write to us at Highways, Regulatory Services, London Borough of Barnet, 2 Bristol Avenue, Colindale, NW9 4EW.

If you would like someone to help you complete the questionnaire or need more information, please contact us using one of the above methods.

What happens after the consultation closes?

The council will use the consultation findings to inform our final decision. We will publish the results of the consultation, our decision and how we are acting on the results of the consultation on this web page in first quarter 2023.