ECM_22343519_v1_Aboricultural Impact Assessment · 132000.200173.1

                                                                                            Consult Arborist

                 9 G ENERAL E XCAVATION M ETHODOLOGIES
                 Details below give examples of works methodology to excavate a trench or general excavation
                 when working in proximity to trees.

                 When using a mechanical excavator ground protection is advisable to minimise compaction
                 and damage to the surrounding soil and roots. With a combination of a small bucket and ripper,
                 the spoil from the trench can be carefully extracted. General excavation is to be undertaken,
                 when possible, with the bucket positioned perpendicular to the tree, and the spoil dug away
                 from the tree, this helps to minimise roots being accidentally torn or fractured.

                 When excavations are being undertaken within a tree's root zone, all necessary precautions
                 are to be adhered to. The Project Arborist will advise on the progression of the works and
                 undertake root pruning as required.

                 Roots deemed to be pruned and removed are to be carefully cut using a sharp saw and/or
                 secateurs. Root removal is carried out by the Project Arborist on a root-by-root basis taking
                 into consideration the type of tree, distance from the cut to the tree, and the size and number
                 of roots found.

                 Where possible trenches and excavations are to be carefully backfilled using topsoil from the
                 site or imported topsoil with a low organic matter content and lightly compacted by hand within
                 the tree zone. Ideally, the ground is then irrigated to increase moisture in the soil (not
                 waterlogged) and where possible 100mm of mulch is spread to cover the surface area.

                 Where possible create a preliminary trench/excavation at the outer edges of the required cut
                 line using a Hydro-vacuum excavator. Roots found can be cleanly cut by the Project Arborist.
                 Once the preliminary cut line is completed excavation of the remaining area outside the cut
                 line can be dug using the appropriate excavator with all due care and attention to the adjacent
                 protected trees.




                                       Figure 16: Example of preliminary trench/excavation cuts




                 23_02_22_AIA_Adapt_2 Arakoon_2                                                     Page 20 of 25
Document Set ID: 22343519
Version: 1, Version Date: 16/03/2023