Project Description
Hayden’s were commissioned to undertake an Arboricultural Assessment (Arboricultural Constraints Plan, Arboricultural Impact Assessment, Arboricultural Method Statement and Tree Protection Plan) for a new Children’s Hospice. The key element of the brief was that the new hospice was to be set within existing woodland in a densely populated urban district of Ipswich.  The initial site visit, tree inspection and associated Arboricultural Constraints plan formed a key element of the design process, the aim of which was to create a quiet oasis within a woodland setting for the children, their families, friends and carers. Working as an integral member of the design team, our subsequent Arboricultural Impact Assessment, Arboricultural Method Statement and Tree Protection Plan ensured that the retained trees preserved the woodland setting whilst allowing the construction of an award winning building.

Hayden’s Requirements

• Site visit and detailed inspection of trees, woodlands and hedges.
• Preparation of Arboricultural (Tree) Constraints Plan.
• Liaison with project/design team comprising client, architect, planning consultant, landscape architect.
• Preparation of Arboricultural Impact Assessment on finalised layout.
• Preparation of Tree Protection Plan.
• Preparation of literature and plans, and attendance at public exhibition.
• Tendering and managing tree works.
• Arboricultural monitoring of the construction phase and completion of the development.

Project Challenges
The project involved a dense woodland within which structures were to be erected, services to be installed and parking/access to be provided, whilst maintaining the essential character of the site within the urban environment.  Consequently, the design and layout of the project was essential. Through a detailed analysis of the existing tree stock and the use of innovative and bespoke engineering solutions, we were able to identify the most suitable position for the hospice and associated infrastructure within the woodland that both coincided with the poorest trees and required the minimum of tree loss. We also developed a woodland walk for the children through the remaining woodland based around the more attractive and interesting trees. The project prompted high public interest with local concerns being raised about the loss of the woodland. As such a diplomatic approach was essential. Through our thorough liaison, all interested parties were kept fully informed during all stages of tree inspection, planning application and construction. Clear and accurate presentation of the proposed tree management ensured that these concerns were allayed. This lead to a successful planning application and an award winning building – with Hayden’s being recognised at the ceremony for the central importance of our input.

Project particulars

• Client – East Anglian Children’s Hospice (EACH)
• Architect – Barefoot & Gilles