In a busy city like Manchester, trees play a far more vital role than many people realise. They provide clean air, reduce flooding risks, boost mental well-being, and even increase property values. But despite their importance, urban and suburban trees face constant threats – from development, disease, storm damage, and neglect.
As professional tree surgeons in Manchester, we’re not only here to remove or manage dangerous trees — we’re strong advocates for tree conservation and preservation. And whether you’re a homeowner with a single mature oak or a business managing a green estate, understanding how to protect trees is now more important than ever.
What Is Tree Conservation and Preservation?
While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to slightly different approaches:
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Tree Conservation focuses on protecting and maintaining existing tree populations, especially native or heritage species, through policies, education, and sustainable land use.
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Tree Preservation refers to active steps taken to protect individual trees or groups from harm — including legal protections, physical care, and controlled interventions such as bracing or pruning.
Both are essential to keeping Manchester’s tree canopy healthy and resilient, especially as urban development accelerates and climate challenges grow.
Why Tree Conservation Matters in Manchester
1. Combatting Climate Change
Trees are some of the most effective tools we have for combating urban carbon emissions. A single mature tree can absorb up to 21 kg of CO₂ each year. In a densely populated area like Greater Manchester, where car use and construction are high, preserving existing trees helps offset this environmental footprint.
Trees also help reduce the “urban heat island effect” – cooling the city in summer by providing shade and releasing moisture into the air.
2. Preventing Flooding and Erosion
Manchester’s famously wet weather is only becoming more unpredictable. Trees absorb rainwater and reduce surface runoff, lowering the risk of localised flooding and soil erosion. When mature trees are removed without replacement or planning, surrounding areas can experience drainage issues and long-term environmental degradation.
Understanding Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
If you’re a property owner or business with mature or historically significant trees on your land, they may be protected by a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) — a legal order made by your local council to protect specific trees, groups, or woodlands.
It is illegal to prune, fell, or otherwise disturb a tree under a TPO without consent, and doing so can lead to heavy fines.
As experienced tree surgeons in Manchester, we work closely with local councils, tree constultants and clients to:
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Check TPO status before work begins
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Submit applications on your behalf
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Carry out approved works within regulations
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Provide expert reports and surveys if needed
If you’re unsure about a tree’s protected status, always check before doing any work — even light pruning.
Practical Tree Preservation: What You Can Do
You don’t need to be an arborist to play a role in tree conservation. Here are some simple ways residents and businesses can help preserve local trees:
1. Regular Tree Inspections
Trees suffer from disease, decay, and storm damage — often without visible warning signs. Regular inspections by a qualified tree surgeon help identify issues early and allow for preservation rather than removal.
We recommend a professional tree health check every 2–3 years, especially for:
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Mature or heritage trees
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Trees close to buildings, roads, or walkways
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Trees in high-footfall public areas
2. Appropriate Pruning
Correct pruning encourages healthy growth, prevents limb failure, and avoids overburdening. Poor or aggressive pruning can weaken trees, introduce disease, or trigger unnatural regrowth.
We follow BS 3998 standards (British Standard for Tree Work) to ensure every cut promotes tree health, not harm.
3. Avoiding Root Damage
Tree roots are incredibly sensitive. Driveway installation, landscaping, or even heavy foot traffic can damage root systems and compromise tree stability. If you’re planning building works or garden redesigns, speak to a tree expert early in the process.
Conservation in New Developments
For developers and commercial site managers in Manchester, tree conservation is increasingly tied to planning permission and environmental compliance. Local authorities often require:
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Tree surveys and impact assessments
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Retention plans for existing trees
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Tree protection fencing during construction
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Replacement planting schemes
Our team provides professional Arboricultural Reports (BS5837) and on-site guidance to help your project stay compliant while preserving the natural assets that add value to your development.
How We’re Helping Manchester’s Trees
At Elmhouse Tree Services, we’re more than just tree surgeons — we’re stewards of Manchester’s green infrastructure. We’re proud to:
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Assist with TPO applications and appeals through our approved tree consultants
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Provide emergency tree care after storms
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Restore and manage veteran trees
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Advise local schools, councils, and residents on sustainable tree care
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Promote native species and biodiversity in planting plans
Tree preservation isn’t just about saving trees — it’s about creating a healthier, greener, and more resilient Manchester for the next generation.
