Trees

Trees play a vital role in the environment. Not only do they provide character and beauty within Medway but they also give us oxygen, help to form rain, absorb some pollutants, reduce soil erosion, act as wind and noise barriers and support much of the world’s wildlife. However, trees arouse strong emotions in people: a beautiful tree growing on a driveway is only beautiful if you don’t have to park your car there. Medway Council tries to resolve matters concerning problem trees in the most amicable and mutually beneficial way possible.

Medway Council's tree officers manage all council-owned trees, create and enforce Tree Preservation Orders and offer advice on trees which will be affected by development proposals. Officers are happy to offer advice to members of the public on most tree-related matters.

The team also operates an emergency call-out service for council-owned trees that are a danger to the public or the highway.

Trees growing on the highway and in the council's parks and open spaces are inspected twice annually by contractors who prune back branches to ensure they do not obstruct the roads, footpaths or grass verges. If you notice a problem that requires immediate attention, please do not hesitate to contact the team at the address below.

The team is also responsible for the planting of trees on Medway Council owned land. These trees are usually native species and are planted between December and March. The team considers requests by members of the public to have trees planted at particular locations, provided it is council-owned land. This will include a survey to ensure it is a suitable site.

Tree specialists

The council has details of recommended tree specialists who are members of its Fair Trader scheme.

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