THE Forest of Dean District Council has speeded up the process for permission to work on protected trees and trees in conservation areas.

Owners of trees protected by a Tree Preservation Order or within a designated Conservation Area must apply to the council for permission before doing anything to them.

Previously there was only one option to apply for works to protected trees, but the council is now introducing a new procedure so there will be two options: 'standard' (unchanged original process) and a new 'enhanced' process.

The 'enhanced' option is being introduced to be more responsive for tree owners and enable focus on applications with potentially more significant implications.

Cabinet member for Planning Policy, Cllr Brian Robinson said: "We are very pleased to introduce this new initiative, following feedback from applicants, to make the process quicker for tree owners who want to undertake small works. It will require slightly more time by owners preparing their applications but we hope to be able to give them a decision quicker in return."

Full guidance on the new process is available on the council's website http://www.fdean.gov.uk">www.fdean.gov.uk or by calling 01594 812331/ 812329. There are no fees for applications to undertake works to trees.