Ancient tree
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Annex 2: Glossary, published by the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) in 2012, defines Ancient or veteran tree as: ‘A tree which, because of its age, size and condition, is of exceptional biodiversity, cultural or heritage value. All ancient trees are veteran trees. Not all veteran trees are old enough to be ancient, but are old relative to other trees of the same species. Very few trees of any species reach the ancient life-stage.’
This definition was repeated in the revised NPPF in 2024.
High Speed Rail (Crewe – Manchester) Environmental Statement, Glossary, abbreviations and references, published by the Department for Transport in 2022, defines a veteran tree as: ‘A tree which shows ‘ancient characteristics’. The tree may be of great age; great age relative to others of the same species; existing in an ancient stage of life or due to its biological, aesthetic or cultural interest. Physical characteristics include crown retrenchment and signs of decay in the trunk, branches or roots.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Ancient woodland.
- Biodiversity.
- Definition of tree for planning purposes.
- Forest ownership.
- Forest Stewardship Council.
- Forests.
- National nature reserves.
- National parks.
- NPPF.
- Permission for felling or lopping a tree.
- Planning permission.
- Sustainably procuring tropical hardwood.
- Timber.
- Tree hazard survey.
- Tree preservation order.
- Trees in conservation areas.
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
New Prime Minister delivers on ECA call for cut in electricity costs.
CIOB reacts to the announcement of Andy Burnham as Prime Minister.
Heritage and conservation science workforce survey - Have your say.
England's Suburbs 1820-2020. Book review.
New, more proportionate and targeted approach for higher-risk building assessments.
Government brings British Steel into public ownership.
UKCW Birmingham returns with bold new theme and focus.
New guidance published on competence requirements for self-certification schemes.
Construction Management, 8 July
NEETs crisis drives interest in trades, but apprenticeships barriers remain.
Passive fire protection webinar
MEP services penetration seals.
Where its at podcast (and video) - The role of the Architectural Technologist as an Expert Witness.
More than 200 remarkable buildings added to SAVE’s Buildings at Risk register.



















Comments
[edit] To make a comment about this article, click 'Add a comment' above. Separate your comments from any existing comments by inserting a horizontal line.