Detailed landscaping proposals should be prepared at the pre-application stage so the council can consider their suitability in good time and so the utility providers (for example gas, water, cable TV) can be consulted over the proposals. The council must approve the landscaping proposals within the development whether or not they form part of a landscaping scheme which have been submitted to the planning authority for approval.
Conflict between tree roots and underground utilities is a common issue but can be easily mitigated through good design and construction practices. Co-ordination of services with tree planting proposals must be undertaken at an early stage. Consideration should be given to the layout of services near trees, shrubs and pinch points within the carriageway. Best practice is set out in the latest National Joint Utility Group (NJUG) guidance (Volume 4), and the Trees and Design Action Group (TDAG) publication Trees in Hard Landscapes.