Council launches online guide to county’s untouchable trees

A NEW online map allows people to play their part in protecting some of the county’s most valuable trees.

The map details every tree preservation order (TPO) managed by Leicestershire County Council and shows whether an individual tree, group of trees or even entire woodlands, are covered by one of the orders.

Members of the public can check whether trees are covered by a TPO before carrying out any work on trees or building work which may affect trees covered by a TPO. Breaching a TPO by carrying out unauthorised work can lead to a fine of up to £20,000.

The map can also be used to check if trees being worked on by third parties are subject to a TPO, so any breaches can be reported.

The interactive map also provides links to each of the county’s seven district and borough councils so members of the public can also check on TPOs issued by those authorities.

Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for the environment and the green agenda, said: “We are committed to playing our part in making Leicestershire a greener and healthier place, including plans to help plant 700,000 trees in the county – one for each person.

“We want to make sure that some of the county’s most important trees are protected, and this website allows people to play their part in safeguarding these valuable trees.”

As well as detailed information on TPOs, the searchable map also contains information on how to apply for permission to carry out works to a tree covered by a TPO and details of how to contact the TPO team for further advice. Find it at: