Tree and woodlands: introducing measures for felling street trees

We want to know what you think about proposals to introduce new measures for the process of felling street trees. These measures will make it clearer who is responsible for decisions and what process they should follow. We’re also asking for views on strengthening the Forestry Commission’s power to deal with illegal tree felling.

We’ve proposed four measures, which include:

• introducing 2 new duties on local authorities, a duty to:

  • consult on the felling of street trees
  • report on tree felling and replanting
• creating best practice guidance to support local authorities in drawing up a Tree and Woodland Strategy
• giving the Forestry Commission more powers to deal with illegal tree felling and strengthen protection of wooded landscapes