Decision details

The Executive considered a report in respect of a revised policy for how amenity tree management would be delivered in the future.

The Executive agreed that the Assistant Director (Stevenage Direct Services) following consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Environment and Regeneration, be given delegated authority to approve minor amendments to the policy before its publication, including:

·        A fuller explanation of the definition of “amenity” trees, and the difference between them and other trees;

·        An alignment of the document with Hertfordshire County Council’s emerging Tree Strategy and Guidance documents; and

·        The inclusion of additional information in Policy 8 of the document to provide clarity about assessments of trees supporting protected wildlife species and the legislation protecting wildlife in these circumstances.

It was RESOLVED:

1.      That the Stevenage Amenity Tree Management Policy 2020, as set out at Appendix B to the report, be approved.

2.      That the Assistant Director (Stevenage Direct Services), following consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Environment and Regeneration, be given delegated authority to approve minor amendments to the policy prior to its publication.

Reason for Decision:  As contained in report; and 2. To allow for minor amendments to be made to the document prior to publication.

Other Options considered:  As contained in report.