Council’s trees cost it £91,000 in payouts

ALMOST £100,000 has been spent by Cardiff council on insurance claims made because of its trees.

But the number of claims made against the council are coming down due to what an independent report describes as a “robust, proactive and defendable” system for managing its trees.

Since 2012-13, the council has had to spend £91,151.68 on insurance claims made because of its trees – with the majority of the money going towards settling the claims.

About half of that total – £45,333.96 – was spent in 2012-13, but the annual amount the council is spending on tree claims has fallen year-onyear.

In 2016-17, there were no upheld claims made against council trees.

The report by APSE Solutions, put together in November 2017, praised Cardiff council for its system of managing trees, which it said compares well to other major cities in the UK.

But it pointed to “insufficient resources” to deal with tree work deemed to be of medium or low priority.

Cardiff council does not fell or prune trees which:

Overhang property, unless there is a risk to persons/property.

Are considered too big or too small, unless they are a safety risk.

To alleviate light issues and views, or anything falling from them such as leaves, fruit, nuts and other tree litter.

To help with issues with bird droppings, sap exudation, or issues with wildlife such as bees, wasps or caterpillars.

To clear the way for security cameras or sensor equipment, or to improve the performance of solar panels.

To help with the loss of TV or satellite signal or alleviate issues with phone lines.