Tree Constraints Plan (TCP)

 

A Tree Constraints Plan is a plan showing the root protection areas (RPAs) and representing the effect that the mature height and spread of retained trees will have on layout design through shade, dominance, etc.

In order to avoid damage to the roots or rooting environment of retained trees, the Root Protection Area (RPA) is plotted around category A and B trees as necessary to illustrate potential constraints to the proposed development.

The RPA is calculated as an area equivalent to a circle, with tree at the centre, with a  radius 12 times the stem diameter for single stem trees and 10 times basal diameter for trees with more than one stem arising below 1.5 metres above ground level. The RPA for each tree is been plotted, as appropriate, on the Tree Constraints Plan.

The current and estimated height (in 40 years time) of category A and B trees is annotated on the Tree Constraints Plan where this would cause unreasonable obstruction of sunlight or daylight to the development. This is represented by a segment, with a radius from the centre of the stem, equal to the current or estimated height of the tree. It is drawn from due North West to due East indicating the shadow pattern through the main part of the day.