HA 108-04 Landscape Management Handbook (DMRB, 2004)

DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES
VOLUME 10 ENVIRONMENTAL
DESIGN AND
MANAGEMENT
SECTION 3 LANDSCAPE
MANAGEMENT
PART 2
HA 108/04
LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT
HANDBOOK
SUMMARY
Provides guidance on landscape management of
highways, including decision making process,
techniques, issues and Landscape Management Plans.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
This is a new document to be inserted into the manual.
1.
Insert HA 108/04 into Volume 10, Section 3.
2.
Please archive this sheet as appropriate.
Note: A quarterly index with a full set of Volume

Contents Pages is available separately from The
Stationery Office Ltd.
November 2004
HA 108/04
THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY

SCOTTISH EXECUTIVE
WELSH ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT
LLYWODRAETH CYNULLIAD CYMRU
THE DEPARTMENT FOR REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
NORTHERN IRELAND
Landscape Management
Handbook
Summary:
Provides guidance on landscape management of highways, including decision

making process, techniques, issues and Landscape Management Plans.
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Part 2 HA 108/04
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November 2004
VOLUME 10 ENVIRONMENTAL
DESIGN AND
MANAGEMENT
SECTION 3 LANDSCAPE
MANAGEMENT
PART 2
HA 108/04
LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT
HANDBOOK
Contents
Chapter
November 2004
1.
Introduction to the Landscape Management

Handbook
2.
Landscape Management of Highways
3.
The Highway Resource
4.
Decision Making
5.
Management Issues and Tables
6.
Techniques of Landscape Management
7.
Landscape Management Plans
8.
Abbreviations
9.
Glossary of Terms
10.
References
11.
Enquiries
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK

1.1
It is generally accepted by highways authorities that part of their purpose is to provide
an environmentally acceptable road network. In seeking to fulfil this purpose, there is
recognition that:
z landscaping and tree planting can contribute to a visually interesting journey;
z road corridors offer considerable areas of infrequently visited grass and scrub which support a range
of flora and fauna, which contribute to the biodiversity bank of this country;
z sympathetic treatment of the areas adjacent to the carriageway can help to fit the road back into its
setting and help reduce the impacts of traffic on neighbours;
z landscape management carried out on roadsides can contribute to wider initiatives.

1.2
This Advice Note aims to provide guidance on how environmental features associated
with the highway can be managed to achieve medium and long-term design objectives.
Guidance on design is set out in the Good Roads Guide. Section 1 and 2 of Vol 10 DMRB and
should be seen as a supplement to this Advice Note.
1.3
This Advice Note will commonly be known as the Landscape Management Handbook.
It is aimed at those making decisions about highway landscape management whether they are
landscape managers, ecologists, landscape architects, road maintenance staff or other
landscape professionals. The single term landscape manager will be used in this document
to cover various professions.
1.4
It is intended that this document will provide a useful reference to those concerned with
making decisions on landscape management within the highway soft estate (ie the
landscaped verges and areas outside the carriageway). It is guidance, not a code of
practice, and as such will allow individual landscape managers to adopt their own approaches
so that regional landscape character is developed and protected.
1.5
It is recognised that a handbook alone cannot set out the right solution to every
situation, rather it is based on the making people think approach and that by providing
guidance on the issues to be addressed, will help landscape managers to make balanced
decisions.
1.6
Equally, it is recognised that the Handbook approach cannot by itself describe all the
messages and it is envisaged that many issues of good practice will be developed by other
means, such as on-site training, workshops and through experience.
1.7
Equally, there are also many instances that will require very specific guidance, eg, for
protected species. In such cases, the landscape manager will need to seek specialist advice,
and this document directs the reader to better placed sources.
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1.8
The Handbook, which forms part of DMRB Volume 10, has been developed in relation
to other documents and guidelines (refer to Table 8.1), including:
z Highways Agency Biodiversity Action Plan (HABAP);
z Trunk Road Maintenance Manual (TRMM);
z Northern Ireland Roads Service Environmental Handbook;
z The Scottish Executives Cost Effective Landscapes; Learning from Nature (CEL; LfN);
z The Welsh Assembly Trunk Road Environment Biodiversity Action Plan (TREBAP).
1.9
The Handbook is generally concerned with managing landscapes after the initial
establishment phase has been completed. The processes involved in making landscape
management decisions are examined and some outline guidance is provided on how to
implement those decisions through landscape management plans. The landscape manager is
encouraged to take a holistic view of the management of the soft estate and to have in mind
the long-term aim of creating sustainable highway landscapes.
The prime purpose of roads is for transportation. Management of the vegetation must
therefore allow two paramount highway maintenance requirements to be achieved:
z the safety of road users and maintenance personnel; and
z the ability to maintain (repair, replace, improve) all built elements of the highway.
The landscape manager must therefore manage to achieve the primary environmental
functions in the correct balance and within the limitations of highway requirements.
1.10 Within the UK there are four Overseeing Organisations for trunk road design and
maintenance:
z Highways Agency (England);
z Scottish Executive;
z Welsh Assembly Government;
z Department for Regional Development Roads Service Northern Ireland.
All these organisations support the broad principles of the Landscape Management
Handbook (LMHB) and the use of best practice landscape and environmental management.
However, not all the advice contained in the advice note will be relevant to all Overseeing
Organisations.
1/1

1.11 The Scottish Executive supports the advice and guidance contained in the DMRB.
However, with regard to landscape design and maintenance, the Scottish Executive has
developed and published their own policy entitled Cost Effective Landscape: Learning from
Nature (CEL: LfN). Since 1998 it has been compulsory that this policy be applied to all trunk
road landscape design and management in Scotland. There are elements of the guidance
contained within the LMHB that are not in accordance with the CEL: LfN policy, and which
would not, as a consequence, be supported on Scottish trunk roads. With regard to
application of the LMHB in Scotland, if there is a difference of approach between the LMHB
and CEL; LfN then the latter shall take precedent.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
1.13 A comparison of relevant organisations, legislation, guidance, and management

procedures used by UK government administrations is set out in Table 8.1.
1.14 The Handbook is structured as follows:

1.12 The Welsh Assembly Government Transport Directorate and the Department for
Regional Development Roads Service Northern Ireland both support the production and issue
of the Landscape Management Handbook but advise that whilst the broad principles are
acceptable, differences exist in the method of management, recording and execution of
maintenance of the soft estate and do not bind themselves to accept any of the techniques
contained in this document.
They do bind themselves to ensuring the use of best practice, sustainability and the
enhancement of biodiversity on their networks in respect of landscape and environmental
management matters. Designers, design organisations and management organisations
should satisfy themselves of the requirements of the Welsh Assembly Government Transport
Directorate and the Department for Regional Development Roads Service Northern Ireland to
ensure that current standards applicable to Wales and Northern Ireland are met.
NOVEMBER 2004
Chapter 1 Introduction to Landscape Management Handbook

States the aims and audience for the guidance document.
Chapter 2 Landscape Management of Highways
Defines landscape management in relation to the highway/road network and this document.
Chapter 3 The Highway Resource
Defines what is considered to be the highway resource and sets out an example of a
clasification system.
Chapter 4 Decision Making
Considers how decisions on landscape management of the soft estate should be made.
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PART 2 HA 108/04
Chapter 5 Management Issues and Tables

Considers each landscape and environmental element in turn, and introduces issues to be
aware of when making decisions on how to manage each element.
Chapter 6 Techniques
Describes the techniques to be used when managing roadside landscapes and specific points
to be aware of when applying the techniques, as Technique Notes.
Chapter 7 Landscape Management Plans
Suggests how to prepare a landscape management plan for the highway soft estate.
Chapter 8 Abbreviations
Chapter 9 Glossary of Terms
Chapter 10 References
Chapter 11 Enquiries
NOVEMBER 2004
1/3
CHAPTER 2 LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT OF HIGHWAYS

2.1
Landscape management can be defined as a process that uses horticultural, forestry,
arboricultural and ecological techniques to achieve certain planned outcomes for the wide
range of features that make up our natural and man made landscape. Management of the
roadside landscape can have a variety of aims: visual, safety and biodiversity; all underpinned
by the principal of sustainability.
Increasingly as roads become more used it will be difficult to close road space for
maintenance operations, therefore the process of landscape management should address
how landscapes can be produced that require minimum intervention. The design process
should seek to establish landscapes that are sustainable and management should aim to
deliver these. However, it should be recognised that highway landscapes will never be totally
self-sustaining, narrow corridors will always need varying degrees of intervention and the
highway corridor has a multi-functional requirement in which sustainability is only one
consideration in the management of the whole estate.
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2.6
It should be recognised that highway landscapes will need to respond to changing
requirements and will be looked after by successive generations. Hence there is a need to
record as much management information as possible, preferably in a GIS database so that
future managers will have access to this valuable ideas bank.
2.7
Landscape managers are part of the wider highway management team, with particular
responsibilities for the soft components and some of the hard components of the highway
estate. Their aim is to develop and achieve objectives that may be set out in Route Strategies
or Landscape Management Plans for the road. They also need to review original design
objectives that may be no longer relevant.
2.8
The process of landscape management in relation to highways comprises the
following:
z classifying the environmental resource to be managed (see Chapter 3);
2.2
The Handbook recognises that landscape management of a highway corridor is of a
specialised nature, where decisions are often made more difficult by the narrowness of the
soft estate and its proximity to high-speed traffic. The safety and security of operators when
working adjacent to the highway is of paramount concern when working on the soft estate.
z making decisions in relation to landscape management (see Chapter 4);
Modern road design often results in large cuttings and embankment slopes that achieve the
sweeping lines and contours of modern high-speed roads. This leads to challenges and
opportunities. Challenges in terms of balancing competing issues and opportunities for
demonstrating good practice in developing and managing highway landscapes that are highly
visible.
z delivery documents Landscape Management Plans (see Chapter 7).
z recognising management issues (see Chapter 5);

z deciding methods or techniques available for undertaking management (see Chapter 6); and
2.3
Landscape management of the highway soft estate is a relatively new area of
expertise. Guidance is necessary to ensure that good practice is followed and that this
expertise is passed on to new staff.
Landscape management should not seek to compartmentalise and isolate the soft estate from
the management of the whole road, but should manage in relation to the other aims and
functions of the network.
2.4
The main drivers for landscape management of highways are safety and cost
effectiveness, whilst respecting the environment.
2.5
Landscape managers will need to recognise that managing landscapes that result from
widening within existing boundaries schemes will require more much intervention than
conventional landscapes due to the restricted widths and closer proximity to other constraints.
This does not, however, mean that the aim of sustainability can be forgotten.
NOVEMBER 2004
2/1
CHAPTER 3 THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

3.1
THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE
z The road network comprises motorways, dual carriageways, improved single carriageways and
unimproved roads in the UK, as well as bridges, tunnels and urban highways. The trunk road and
motorway estate in England alone currently extends to over 30,000 hectares of verges, central
reserves, interchanges and other land. The soft areas within the highway boundary and adjacent
areas support a diverse range of vegetation and features, such as woody and herbaceous
vegetation, ponds, ditches and other wetland, boundary features, rock and scree, hard landscape
features, protected species and other flora and fauna. These features make up the highway
landscape resource.
z In England, the Highways Agency Biodiversity Action Plan (May 2002) provides action plans for a
selected range of habitats and species associated with the Trunk Road network. In Scotland, the
Trunk Roads Biodiversity Action Plan (2000), and in Wales, the Trunk Road Estate Biodiversity
Action Plan (2004), provide similar plans for habitats and species. In Northern Ireland the Roads
Service Environmental Handbook provides environmental guidance. These documents should be
considered in identifying and targeting the biodiversity part of the resource.
Buzzard nest in roadside woodland - part of the resource

NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
3.2
RECORDING AND CLASSIFYING THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE
z One of the first steps in the management of the resource is to record and classify the various
features of the roadside landscape, in order to obtain a clear picture of what features occur on the
highway and require management. At the same time, the functions for each feature should be
assessed and recorded, so that features can be managed positively to achieve objectives and fulfil
their functions. For new schemes passing into management this information is often identified in
handover documents.
One such system for classifying the resource is that set out in DMRB Volume 10, Section 0. This
ascribes descriptors or Elements to the feature and sets Functions for these features.
The Handbook considers the issues concerned with managing these landscape and
environmental features and then looks at landscape management techniques that need to be
applied to achieve their functions.
It is the intention in England, to record the trunk road resource in the Environmental System
(previously known as the Environmental Database), that will in time, provide a record of the
whole resource. The situation in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is currently under review
and readers should approach the Overseeing Organisations for information on this issue.
Trees above have a visual screening function for houses

3/1
CHAPTER 3 THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

An Element may have multiple functions with related objectives that can be applied, dependant
upon the overall aims of the landscaping at a specific location. Equally there may be other
objectives that are not listed that may be relevant in particular situations. The information in this
chapter serves as a guide to making those management decisions.
3.3
ENVIRONMENTAL FUNCTIONS
When formulating management strategies for roadside vegetation, the setting of

environmental functions is a key requirement. In order to design and manage the highway
network, the purpose of the various features (elements) should be stated, ie why they are
there and what they are intended to achieve.
z The function of any element needs to provide enough information for inheritance planning purposes
so that new landscape managers will not have to make assumptions. For example, a woodland may
be to provide screening between 3 - 10ms from ground level, in particular, or it may be important
that it does not reach any higher than 10ms. Equally, agreements may have been reached with
neighbours about the function of various elements. This will need to be recorded so as to avoid
future problems. This information should be set out within any Landscape Management Plans - see
Chapter 7.
z Landscape Integration and Regional Landscape Character.
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3.4
LANDSCAPE AND ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
The landscape and environmental elements are those features that help to mitigate the
adverse impacts of the highway. They can be divided into broad classification types, eg
hedges, which can then be subdivided again according to their detailed design or
management needs, in conjunction with the stated function.
z The full details of each element can be found by referring to Volume 10, Section 0, Part 3 of DMRB.
Also see Section 7.3 for additional notes on what to include for Landscape Management Plan
purposes. Basically they need to describe what they are.
z Some elements can be managed to achieve multiple functions without undue conflict or expense.
Functions may change over time and merit review and alternative management techniques.
However, the manager should decide on a primary function of management and devise maintenance
regimes accordingly, other secondary functions being identified but of lower priority.
Examples of elements
woodland
injurious weeds
Species Rich Grassland
z If not set out in any Landscape Route Strategies or Landscape Management Plans the landscape
manager should usually try to ensure an overall function is integration is with local regional or subregional landscape types. These can cover urban as well as rural areas, and can involve replicating
species, or vegetation structure, eg, pollarded willows across Cambridgeshire Fens.
z The landscape manager should refer to scheme handover documentation to ascertain any existing
objectives or constraints, such as Pubic Inquiry obligations.
z The landscape manager must recognise that the objectives for the road may change, for example, if
the road is widened or new traffic control technology is implemented. For this reason, the use of
regularly reviewed Landscape Management/Action Plans is recommended (refer to Chapter 7). With
any new scheme, such as road widening, an environmental assessment as part of the scheme
should address the landscape impacts and mitigation.
NOVEMBER 2004
3/2
CHAPTER 4 DECISION MAKING

4.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
DECISION MAKING
In order to make balanced and reasoned judgements, the landscape manager requires a
range of baseline data on the resource to develop landscape objectives. There should then
follow a consideration of the issues (budget, safety, priorities, regional or local variations etc)
before making decisions on management programmes.
The process of
decision making
Programme
Timing
Survey, Record & Classify

data on Landscape +
Environmental Resource
The following sections set out issues under broad headings which the landscape manager
needs to consider in his descision making. Chapters and 5 and 6 consider these in more
detail.
4.2
CONSTRAINTS
z Access
When designing work programmes, the question of access and the possibility of lane closures will
have to be considered in estimating how much work can be achieved. Work in central reservations
may require a lane closure on either side. It may be necessary to consider night working if road
space cannot be made available during the day.
Landscape + Environmental
Functions
z Safety
Landscape + Environmental
Objectives to achieve
Functions
z Services
Budget
Safety
Work patterns and programmes must ensure the safety of highway personnel and road users when
working next to high-speed traffic in restricted space.
The location of existing underground services within the highway verge is a constraint that
landscape managers should be familiar with. The installation of new services within the highway
verge requires liaison between landscape managers and engineers to ensure minimum disturbance
to the soft estate through correct working procedures and a coordinated approach.
Priorities
z Ecological
The presence of protected species and habitats will place restrictions on the timing and type of
landscape management practices that can be carried out. The landscape manager should refer to
available databases and Biodiversity Action Plans (refer to Table 8.1) and have an understanding of
wildlife legislation.
Decisions
The above constraints represent the main constraints when carrying out landscape management
works on the highway, however, there may be others that will be specific to individual locations.
Contractual Orders
(Work Instructions)
Audit
Review
NOVEMBER 2004
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4.3
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
LEGISLATION AND POLICY GUIDANCE
z Landscape management decisions need to be robust and flexible enough to achieve results when
allocations change. Hence the need to manage highway landscapes to be as self-sustaining as
possible.
z Any management must comply with legislative requirements under UK and European law, which the
landscape manager must be aware of. It is a legal responsibility to ensure that any Public Inquiry
obligations are maintained. Policy guidance such as local development plans and other documents
(refer to Table 8.1) should also be referred to. Further reference to relevant legislation is made within
Chapters 5 and 6.
4.5
z There are a variety of techniques that can be used to manage landscapes. Some techniques that
can be used in non-highway situations cannot be used for the management of the soft estate
because of specific highway constraints such as, proximity to speeding traffic, narrowness of soft
estate, steepness of embankments and cuttings. The landscape manager will need to understand
which techniques are safe and appropriate for the management of the highway soft estate.
The majority of waste generated from landscaping works will be green waste but some are classified
as pollutants, such as invasive species eg Japanese knotweed and ragwort. The majority of green
waste from landscaping will be classified as controlled waste. Thus a waste management licence
will apply to these wastes if they are:
4.6
deposited;
stored;
CONSULTATION
z It is impossible to satisfy everyone all of the time. Neighbours, as well as road users are seen as
customers and should be considered in decision making. Early consultation and using techniques
that minimise disruption to the public is advisable.
treated (including recycling and using mobile plant); or

disposed of controlled waste in or on any land or by means of a mobile plant, or if you knowingly
permit any of these activities.
Whether a licence or an exemption is needed will depend on the duration of storage, types and
quantities of wastes that are being handled and the activity carried out on the site. (Refer to Waste
Management Licensing Regulations 1994 for specific advice).
4.4
TECHNIQUES
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
4.7
z Decisions are often taken by others that affect land outside the highway estate. Landscape
managers should be aware of the need to review the integration of the highway within the wider
landscape.
4.8
z Financial allocations for maintenance are likely to vary from year to year. The success of landscape
management relies on carefully planned, often phased, operations over a number of years that
require long-term financial planning.
THIRD PARTY DECISIONS
OPPORTUNITIES
z It should be recognised that management of highway landscapes can provide many opportunities,
such as:
demonstrating good environmental practice to the many people travelling on the road network;
Capital
phase
demonstrating partnership through helping others to achieve their own objectives, eg, Community
Forests, LBAPs, environmental agencies water quality objectives and Statutory Nature
Conservation Objectives for designated sites. Many initiatives can be progressed via the
partnering process with other like-minded organisations.
Thinning peaks
4.9
TEAM APPROACH
z The team approach is often suited to landscape management of highways, as decision makers are
faced with complex decisions requiring inputs from a team of specialists. The landscape managers
should not make decisions in isolation. The process should involve working with a range of other
disciplines, including ecologists, archaeologists, planners, engineers, project managers, water,
structural and geotechnical specialists to develop co-ordinated solutions.
years
Grassland, arboriculture & noxious
weed control spend
NOVEMBER 2004
4/2
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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Highway boundary
NOVEMBER 2004
4/3
CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

5.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
INTRODUCTION
z This chapter looks at the issues to be considered in the decision making process. For example, in
the management of amenity grass to achieve landscape integration there is a need to be aware of
changes in the surrounding areas into which integration is taking place. It is recognised that it will
not be possible to cover every issue relevant to each element but the section gives examples of the
main issues that the landscape manager should be considering during the decision-making process.
z A management table for each environmental element details the elements, primary and secondary
functions and the objectives of landscape management to achieve the function. The table also lists
the techniques to be employed in the management of the element to fulfil its possible objectives.
These techniques are identified as main or optional. Main techniques will always apply and
optional techniques will apply in certain situations. The techniques are described in Chapter 6.
z For example, a primary environmental function of woodland may be integration. Therefore the
objective to achieve integration, is to manage the plot to have a similar species composition to the
woodland in the surrounding area. Some of the main techniques to be employed to achieve this
function are cleaning, coppicing, pruning, thinning, felling, with optional techniques of regeneration
control, enrichment, replanting and aftercare.
z The management tables only give examples of Primary Functions that can apply for each element.
Protected Species issues
Resource identification
NOVEMBER 2004
Traffic management issues
5/1

5.2
AMENITY GRASS AREAS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Higher standard of tidiness is required in amenity grassland in semi/urban areas.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Type of machinery may be important to allow close cutting to trees without damaging the stems,e.g.,
plastic bladed strimmers rather than metal clearing saws.
z Where appropriate consider reducing cutting regime to allow longer grass areas alongside close
mown areas for biodiversity benefits.
z In England, cross-reference with TRMM on grass cutting operations. Litter may be an issue,
especially in urban areas. Litter may need to be picked before grass cutting commences as some
forms of litter may damage cutting equipment or litter may simply be chopped up and spread
around.
z Treatment of arisings can be an issue in urban areas depending on peoples expectations of

tidiness. Generally, for amenity grassland the aim should be to leave arisings in situ, in accordance
with standard practices (see picture below). Careful consideration needs to be given, as arisings can
cause problems with blocking drains and footways. This can be a problem when cutting is infrequent
and the thatch builds up.
Close mown amenity grass provides better integration in urban areas

z Especially applicable in urban or semi-urban situations.
z Sustainability is still an issue to be considered, so that whilst the costs of maintaining amenity grass
is higher, landscape managers should still try to minimise whole life costs by careful consideration of
methods and frequency of management.
z Be aware of future land-use changes in surrounding areas and townscape.

z Even if grassed areas do not require traffic management, but the public have access to the area
being worked then consider temporary exclusion from work site for the health and safety of the
public.
z Consider replacing grass with groundcover or hard surfacing to reduce grass cutting maintenance
where cutting is difficult.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/2

Table 5.2.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Management Table
Environmental Functions
Integration
Objectives
Techniques
operate cutting regimes in sympathy with surrounding areas

provide a grass sward in composition, texture and density to blend with surrounding/adjoining amenity grass
GC
WC
CT
Ren
RC
Visual Amenity
cutting regime to maintain grass to a uniform height, cover and colour with neat edging and no scrub
invasion
Enhancing the Built Environment
maintained grass to provide setting, balance, contrast and to reflect character of buildings, hard structures
and local townscape
Heritage
provide setting for heritage sites
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
GC
CT
RC
Grass Cutting
Chemical treatments
Regeneration control
WC
Ren
Weed control
Renovation
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5.3
GRASSLAND WITH BULBS
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z If the overall design effect is for bulbs to be maintained over a long period of time the bulbs may
need to be replaced periodically. Monitor bulbs and replant as necessary.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Where native bulbs are wanted, the first approach should be to achieve the right conditions for any
native stock on site to increase. The importation of native bulbs needs to be treated with caution as
a significant proportion of commercially available bulbs has a questionable provenance and can
pollute the genetics of true native stock.
Ornamental bulb planting

can often be used as a
gateway feature on
entrance to urban areas
No bulbs planted in
visibility splay
z Generally applies to spring bulbs in urban and semi-urban situations and gateway features. Bulb
planting in rural areas away from large settlement is not normally inappropriate. Where native bulbs
are used source and provenance are most important.
z Grass cutting regimes will need to take into account the flowering times and the need for plants to
build food reserves in the bulb/corm. Cutting should not remove leaves immediately after flowering.
Bulbs can be spring, summer, autumn and winter flowering.
z Include monitoring of bulb regeneration, as bulbs can spread where they may be unwanted.
Ornamental bulbs can result in the loss of native species through direct damage and competition for
feeding regimes.
z Bulbs should be controlled where they may affect visibility splays.
NOVEMBER 2004
z Control of non-native bulb species that can hybridise with native species in adjacent habitats should
be considered in rural areas (e.g. Spanish bluebells can hybridise with native bluebells as above).
5/4

Table 5.3.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Management Table
Visual Amenity
Objectives
Techniques
GC
WC
CT
RC
Ren
maintain balance of bulbs within grassland to provide visual interest, variety, colour and seasonal
effects
maximise flowering potential with delayed cutting regimes
maintain bulbs to provide interest and contrast
Landscape Integration
encourage bulbs in ground layer of woody plots to link with adjacent plots where bulbs have colonised
Nature Conservation and

Biodiversity
encourage a variety of native bulbs to increase diversity
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
GC
CT
E
Grass Cutting
Chemical treatments
Enrichment
WC
RC
Ren
Weed control
Renovation
5/5

5.4
SPECIES RICH GRASSLAND
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Species rich grassland areas require regular monitoring to ensure that their wildlife value is being
maintained or increased under the prescribed management regime. This will require ecological
expertise and the maintenance of adequate records.
z If cuttings and embankments are to be managed as species rich grassland, involving cutting and
removal of arisings, then traffic management is likely to be required. Consider disposal of arisings
on site, e.g., rake up and spread in tree plantations.
z South facing cuttings often require less cutting and removal as grass growth tends to be less
vigorous.
Summer flowering grassland
z Refer to the Wildflower Handbook (DMRB Volume 10, Section 3, Part 1) for additional information on
design, establishment and management of species rich grassland.
z Grassland may be species rich due to incidental factors, e.g., rabbit grazing, climate and shallow
topsoil. Landscape managers should consider whether actual intervention, i.e., grass cutting and
raking is warranted.
z It is unlikely that the landscape manager will desire to, or have sufficient resources to, achieve
species rich grassland throughout the network so focusing resources on selected areas, especially
BAP priority habitats, should be considered.
z All management records should be stored for future decision makers to access.
Spring flowering grassland cowslips
NOVEMBER 2004
5/6
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Table 5.4.1 Management Table
Objectives
Techniques
GC
TA
WC
CT
RC
Ren
MPS

Biodiversity
allow a diversity of grasses and wildflower species that are appropriate to the site, to
develop and create greater biodiversity
Visual Amenity
maintain a variety of wildflower species to provide colour, form, texture, scale and variety
manage in sympathy with adjoining species rich habitats
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
GC
WC
RC
Ren
Grass cutting
Weed control
Renovation
TA
CT
E
MPS
Treatment of arisings
Chemical treatments
Enrichment
Management of protected and biodiversity action plan species
Photo above shows ant-hill, which has been attacked by woodpeckers. Ant hills are often a
sign of species rich grassland and cutting techniques should aim to leave these undamaged
NOVEMBER 2004
5/7

5.5
ROCK AND SCREE
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Management plans need to be based around regular site reviews and measures, to encourage
suitable species and minimise safety problems.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Sites may be RIGS or even designated as Geological SSSIs/ASSIs management may need to be
agreed with the statutory nature conservation organisation (SNCO). This type of habitat is
recognised within the UKBAP as Inland Rock and in particular regions will be recognised at a local
or regional level.
Vegetation has periodically been

removed and the whole face
pinned and bolted for stability.
z Rock and Scree sites are likely to hold reptile species and some form of environmental assessment
may be needed to inform timing and techniques. E.g. If clearance of vegetation is required, the
timing of the work may be important.
z The maintenance of exposed rock cuttings on the network can provide visual interest and where this
is the case, it is important that they are not obscured by vegetation.
Rock and scree vegetation provides interest and character along

the roadside and provides potential reptile habitat. Any work on
this cutting is likely to require traffic management due to the
narrowness of the verge
z Safety issues with unstable scree are very important and artificial erosion control may be required.
In friable strata, vegetation with deep woody roots can cause the rock face to spoil off, so control of
the woody vegetation may be needed.
z Rock pins and bolting can be visually intrusive but vegetation on the rock face can mitigate this.
z There may be limited scope for regular maintenance of rock faces and scree due to difficulties of
access. However, opportunities may arise for work to be carried out in conjunction with engineering
maintenance and remedial stability works.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/8
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
RC
CT
TA
MPS
Integration
maintain in sympathy with local surrounding landform

reduce regeneration of scrub
Visual Amenity
encourage local plant species but discourage succession, leaving exposed rock as a landmark feature

Biodiversity
retain diversity of habitat and encourage appropriate habitat species

encourage formation of habitat ledges
Heritage
retain balance of vegetation within landform, to provide a feature contributing to the character of the
local landscape
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
RC
CT
Chemical treatments
TA
E
Enrichment
MPS Management of protected and biodiversity action plan species
Vegetation which makes its home in joints in rock cuttings can be both a problem, if roots widen the
cracks or a benefit in softening the appearance of the cutting. The landscape manager will need to
recognise which vegetation is beneficial and which will need to be removed
NOVEMBER 2004
5/9

5.6
HEATH AND MOORLAND
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Gorse if not controlled can dominate heathland

community and become a fire hazard
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Competing gorse has been removed to allow

heather to flourish
Moorland vegetation both within and outside the highway boundary.

A light fence has been used to demarcate the boundary to enhance
the idea of a seamless landscape
z Landscape Managers should be aware of the need to agree management of statutory designated
sites with SNCOs and other legislation for agreeing management adjacent to designated sites.
z Management of heathland should aim to maintain a mosaic of heather age structures.

z Reptile species are likely to be encountered on heathland verges so environmental assessments
may be necessary prior to the start of works.
z Assessment of likely environmental impacts and reference to any database prior to work should be
made. Issues such as timing and techniques can be important.
z Management regimes must take into account engineering and safety needs such as erosion control,
wind blown material, fire and drainage.
In the picture above the area of the right has been periodically cut as
part of a visibility splay, which keeps the heath low and rejuvenated
NOVEMBER 2004
5/10
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Integration
Techniques
GC
CT
TA
RC
Ren
MPS
keep management regimes and species enhancement in tune with local conditions
control succession of inappropriate woody vegetation
minimise visual impact of boundary fencing to allow open views to surrounding vegetation.
encourage use of regeneration techniques to extend adjacent habitats for flora and fauna
manipulate vegetation to provide and conserve habitat opportunities where fauna is to be
encouraged

Biodiversity
Visual Amenity
Heritage
encourage heathland and moorland species to provide colour, texture and scale of vegetation
awareness of the distinctive landscape character of heath and moorland and compliance with
conditions relating to its maintenance and rejuvenation
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
GC
Grass cutting
CT
Chemical treatments
TA
Treatment of Arisings
RC
E
Enrichment
Ren Renovation
It should not be forgotten the presence of reptiles especially adders provides health and safety issues for operatives
and working methods
NOVEMBER 2004
5/11

5.7
OPEN GRASSLAND
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z General grass areas may need to be maintained for safety reasons; to ensure adequate visibility; to
allow access for maintenance; or in certain situations where dead grass growth and scrub invasion
may be considered to be a fire hazard.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Generally the habitat which makes up the majority of the roadside soft estate, it does not tend to be
floristically as diverse as other grassland but still holds considerable biodiversity value for small
mammals and hence raptor species.
z The visual acceptability of grassed areas depends largely on their context, a minimum maintenance
approach may be appropriate in many rural areas, but not where a road passes through a village or
approaches a built up area. Similarly, a specific maintenance regime may help integrate a road into
the surrounding landscape.
z Grassland management programmes should recognise that to maintain open grassland, it may only
be necessary to carry out periodic scrub control; grass cutting may not be necessary.
z In England, reference should be made to TRMM for minimum mowing requirements.

z Timing and the method of maintenance are important, as open grassland is valuable for butterflies,
small mammals, reptiles, raptors and many invertebrates.
Grassland usually MG1A NVC which has periodically been mown to keep
brambles and scrub from dominating
When cutting open grassland, an autumn/early winter cut may have more lasting impression
and value, as its effect will last throughout the winter. Cutting this late will not however help
with weed control.
Open grassland which integrates well with adjoining pasture
NOVEMBER 2004
5/12
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
GC
CT
WC
RC
Ren
MPS
Integration
control scrub and noxious weeds to retain an open grassland sward

implement a cutting regime in sympathy with adjacent field areas

Biodiversity
reduce fertility of the soil and encourage species diversity

allow areas of longer grass to provide habitat for small mammals
Visual Amenity
manipulate cutting regime to vary number of cuts as appropriate in rural and urban areas
reduce visual intrusion of large embankments by cutting grass and dead flowering heads where next
to managed grassland
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
GC
WC
Ren
Grass cutting
Weed control
Renovation
CT
RC
MPS
Chemcial treatment
5/13

5.8
GRASS REINFORCED WALLS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z These earthworks are built in areas of limited land take or where carriageway widening has taken
place. They allow steepened side slopes to be constructed and vegetated.
z They allow the slopes to be integrated with the surrounding verge area and provide visual amenity to
the highway user.
z There are two common forms of earthwork; the metal framework and the plastic wrap around
netting. They will have been seeded with a grass seed mix appropriate to their location and
environmental function.
NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Their location directly beside the running lane, their angle of slope and aspect present particular
problems to the Landscape Manager. These include high salt concentrations during the winter
months, dry soil conditions and heat, both directly and reflected, during the summer months.
z Where local rabbit infestation is a problem the slopes can provide an opportunity for the rabbits to
burrow. They will chew through the plastic membrane and burrow into the constructed material.
z Earth walls require assessment to determine their location, aspect and vegetative content. Barriers
generally protect the walls making it difficult to use conventional means of vegetative management.
Their aspect is important, as south facing walls dry out faster and vegetation grows very sparsely or
slowly compared to those on north facing walls. Tall invasive weeds and scrub should be avoided to
maintain integration and provide visual amenity.
5/14
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
GC
WC
CT
Ren
RC
Integration
provide a grass sward in sympathy with surrounding areas
Visual Amenity
cutting regime to maintain grass to a uniform height without invasive weeds and scrub
Key to symbols
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
GC
CT
RC
Grass cutting
Chemcial treatment
WC
Ren
Weed control
Renovation
5/15

5.9
WOODLAND
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Screening for headlight glare or highway lighting at night may be the desired function of the plot, and
so the height of the screening will be important. Screens may have to be maintained between
certain heights to achieve this.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Work on central reserve woodland may need two sets of traffic management on both
carriageways
Woodland managed within highway boundary to form

extension to adjoining mature multi-layered woodland
z Consider leaving deadwood standing where it is safe to do so. Smaller areas can be thinned by
z Roadside woodlands can provide for many functions, due to their linear nature, connectivity is one of
girdling/ring barking and left to stand. Consider leaving trunk to rot down naturally in an upright
position rather than cut the trunk down to the ground. This provides habitat for wood boring insects,
woodpeckers and nesting sites for tree creepers.
their big benefits and so management programmes should consider their wider value i.e., if the
woodland provides a connection between two adjacent dormice habitats then any management of
the connecting roadside woodland which is detrimental to dormice will have a much more significant
impact than just the dormice that may live on the soft estate.
z Consider the sequence of management techniques so that the primary functions of woodland are
maintained. For example, cyclical operations of thinning and coppicing and phased management
within plots to keep the plot dense and avoid the loss of screen. Thinning little and often in sensitive
locations will often be better than drastic intervention.
z Monitor changes in land use of the surrounding countryside when planning management
programmes. For example, new screens may be needed to replace off-site screen planting removed
by others; new housing estates may require new screens.
z Where the function is screening year round screening should be the desired outcome, so
enrichment of deciduous screens with evergreen species maybe necessary.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/16

z Consider treatment of arisings e.g. chip, windrow (refer to section 6.8.4), or log piles. This will
depend on issues such as urban/rural location, safety, slope angle and biodiversity value of dead
wood. It is preferable to retain dead wood on site for biodiversity and cost reasons whenever
possible.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Before undertaking works, consider the impact on protected species and the bird-nesting season.
Timing and disturbance may be an issue. Some activities may require licences, e.g. working close to
badger setts. Picture below shows a rookery, an early nesting species.
Woodland which is helping to provide screening for housing behind
Dense woodland on a wide cutting. The width of the woodland means that when
thinning is carried out, it will have less impact than if thinning a narrow plot
z As woodlands gain maturity, the potential for bat roosts increases. Woodland should be surveyed for
bats prior to any works being carried out.
z Maintain vegetation clear of ditches, fences, overhead power cables & signs and structures. Be
aware of effects on underground services/neighbouring foundations and overhead furniture.
z Woodland works in central reserves will usually require traffic management to be set up, possibly on
both carriageways if the works affects them. Therefore to keep disruption to travelling public to a
minimum consider working off peak or carrying out more than the minimum to minimise the need to
go in again so soon.
z Consider safety of the road user and necessary traffic management when treating edge plots near to
the carriageway.
z In urban areas or approach roads, the visual experience for the road user and adjacent population
z As woodlands mature, safety becomes more of an issue and it will be important to carry out
arboricultural inspections regularly and deal with defects promptly. Refer to TRMM or equivalent
documentation for specific advice on the frequency of inspections.
z Historically, many roadside woodlands are even aged/sized, with low species diversity. Increasing
spatial/vertical structure and species composition can increase their biodiversity value.
z The shrub, herb and bulb layer are very important. Management focussing on these species can
improve biodiversity, driver interest and integration.
z Prior to work, assessment of likely environmental impacts and reference to any databases should be
may be as relevant as the screen for neighbours.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/17
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
Cl
Pr
RC
CT
AW
TA
RP
MPS
AC
Screening
width of planting to achieve layered structure

dense planting
evergreen plants in mix
Integration
manage in sympathy with management of adjacent

and nearby woodlands
mix of species to reflect local landscape character
Nature Conservation
diversity of habitats
native species
Visual Amenity
variety of form, colour and texture

variety of edge treatments; scallops and open areas
bulbs and ground flora
Key to symbols
Primary E
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
Cl
T
CT
E
MPS
AC
Cleaning
C
Coppice
Thinning
RC
Chemical treatments
AW
Arboricultural works
Enrichment
RP
Replanting
After care
Pr
F
TA
Pruning
Felling
Picture opposite shows safety barrier damaged by third party tree limb blown down in
summer storm. This limb affected hard shoulder and lane 1 of motorway and shows third
party trees must be subject to safety inspections. The neighbouring landowner has since
removed these trees
NOVEMBER 2004
5/18
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.10 WOODLAND EDGE
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Woodland edge, demonstrating strong autumn colour. The planting in the highway verge
blends well with the woodland beyond, although the line of field maple could be broken up to
achieve a more sympathetic tie in
Woodland edge type planting, with species capable of forming screening up to 4 metres high
z In woodland edge plots on wide verges consider creating scallops in the edge especially on south
facing slopes, to create warm sunny microclimates for insects and reptiles.
z Woodland edges need smaller species, so successive thinning will need to remove taller forest type
trees. The smaller trees will, in addition, provide a lower screen along the roadside.
The art of good landscape management is to be able to look ahead. In the picture above
vegetation will obscure the sign completely in two or these years. It will be easier, cheaper and
safer to remove it now
NOVEMBER 2004
5/19

z Where there is little room in the verge, access to the woodland edge plot from the roadside should
be carefully planned and comply with safety procedures. Traffic management will often be required
for woodland edge works.
z A dense edge can pose problems for access to the woodland beyond, access routes should be
planned as part of the management works.
z Management works in woodland edge plots should be planned and carried out with consideration to
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z See Chapters 5.8 and 5.13 for additional issues that have the same application to woodland edge.
z Woodland edge plants are often frequented by nesting passerines so avoid work during bird nesting
season.
z Woodland edge plots generally have more light, so flowering and fruiting of species is generally
increased. This can be visually beneficial and increase feeding opportunities for many bird species
and other fauna.
the works in the adjacent woodland so that the Environmental Functions are maintained.
z Often woodland edge provides the only low to medium level screening. Thinning this as well as the
woodland behind needs to be carefully considered where screening is important.
z Height may be an important issue for woodland edge plots. For example, a woodland edge plot may
need to be less than 6 metres high for low to medium level screening. This would affect decisions on
which species to favour when thinning.
z Prior to works, effects on protected species should be assessed and any database queried.
z For woodland edge plots particularly, the wrong choice of cutting machine can leave highly visible
scars sending the wrong message. Inappropriate use of the flail can rip and tear. Decision-making
should aim to avoid flailing mature tree and shrub plots.
Pictures above show before and after shots of clearances being reinstated. This will be a
particular issue with woodland edge plots. Note the extent of clearances will allow for
several years before a repeat treatment is necessary
NOVEMBER 2004
5/20
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
Cl
MPS
Pr
RC
CT
TA
AC
Screening
dense planting in conjunction with woodland

evergreen plants in mix
shrub and woodland edge trees to form low and middle level screen
Integration
re-creation of edge to woodland adjoining the highway

mix of species to reflect local landscape character
Nature Conservation
creation of shrub layer and edge habitat

native species
open parts of the canopy
develop ground flora
Visual Amenity
variety of form, colour and texture, seasonal interest

variety of edge treatments; scallops, mass planting and open
areas, coppice. Retain low tree branches
bulbs and ground flora
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
Cl
Cleaning
MPS
Pr
F
E
Pruning
Felling
Enrichment
T
CT
AC
Management of protected and

biodiversity action plan species
Thinning
Chemical treatments
After care
Coppice
RC
TA
5/21

5.11 HIGH FOREST
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z The health and stability of tall trees next to the highway will require regular inspections and
monitoring for safety.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Individual high forest trees can have a high centre of gravity. Wind throw may be more of an issue
for these woodlands. Thinning needs to be carefully thought about in these situations. Direction of
prevailing wind will be important.
z High forest may be designed to allow views though to interesting ground flora. Crown lifting and
brashing may be necessary to achieve this.
High Forest provides a dramatic setting for the road. Young trees have been
planted to integrate the road into the surrounding plantations. The mature
trees have suffered wind throw from the exposure created by the road
cutting; planting will reduce this exposure
High forest managed to provide view to herb layer below by removing lateral
side branches
z The greatest biodiversity value of high forest is often at canopy level, particularly for birds.
Assessment prior to commencement of works is required to determine any affects on protected
species and reference made to any database.
z The landscape manager should consider whether arisings could safely be left on site for dead wood
value (refer to Section 5.8).
z Picture opposite shows willow which has suffered wind throw after thinning has taken place for
underplanting.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/22
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
MPS
Cl
TA
CT
AW
RP
AC
Screening
retain dense plantation

rotational felling and replanting to form middle and lower screens
Integration
choose balance of species and design to reflect the surrounding forests
Nature Conservation
retain tall trees for nesting sites

retain standing dead wood where feasible
Visual Amenity
maximise the uniformity of high forest trees to create a strong visual

statement and character in the roadside environment
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
MPS
F
AW
AC
Management of protected and

Felling
Aftercare
Cl
Cleaning
Thinning
TA
E
Enrichment
CT
RP
Chemical treatments
Replanting
Extracting timber by helicopter, this unusual

solution was driven by the need to keep the
road open as much as possible. Long road
closures were not possible. Landscape
managers should try to think ahead when
considering methods
NOVEMBER 2004
High forest on the top of a deep cutting. Tree

stability will become of greater importance as the
trees increase in size. It may be prudent to
manage this to produce a more stable
vegetation type
5/23

5.12 LINEAR BELTS OF TREES AND SHRUBS
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Linear belts are planted in areas where there is little room for more planting; there is often an access
problem in carrying out work in already tight verges. Managing linear belts in central reserves can
require traffic management on both carriageways to access the plots safely.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Assessment prior to commencement of works is required to determine any effects on protected

species and reference made to any database.
z Particularly for highway vegetation, landscape managers should consider the three dimensional
space in which the vegetation sits. Planting, which will ultimately be too big for this space, will
require frequent works to keep it within bounds. Vegetation, which on achieving its end height will
comfortably sit within its three dimensional space, will cost considerably less to maintain in the long
term.
z Landscape managers should recognise that if thinning is left too long there is a likelihood of toppling
or wind throw due to increased exposure. The little and often approach to thinning may be of most
value for these plots.
z The maintenance of sight lines is an issue with linear plots.
More sustainable vegetation

in long term
NOVEMBER 2004
Linear belts of trees and shrubs planted in the highway verge

maximize the limited opportunity for planting; reflecting the pattern
of the existing mature vegetation and integrating the road into the
landscape
More costly to maintain within

3 dimensional space
5/24
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
AC
Cl
PR
TA
CT
AW
RP
Screening
retain dense planting with evergreen content

maintain shrub layer for low level screening
Integration
keep balance of species, form and alignment of planting to reflect

adjoining linear features
Nature Conservation
retain as continuous features to provide wildlife corridors to other

woody plots on and off site
Visual Amenity
provide seasonal colour and variety of plant form
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
AC
T
C
TA
AW
RP
After care
Thinning
Coppice
Replanting
Cl
F
Pr
CT
E
Cleaning
Felling
Pruning
Chemical treatments
Enrichment
5/25

5.13 SHRUBS WITH INTERMITTENT TREES
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Operations may need to be on a smaller scale to achieve the desired shape, especially with trees.
Arboricultural works may be required, where a particular shape is required.
z Assessment prior to commencement of works is required to determine effects on protected species

and reference made to any database.
z Areas dominated by shrubs can often be impenetrable, which makes an assessment of likely
environmental impacts before operations start difficult but even more necessary. Impenetrable scrub
could hold dormice, nesting birds and badgers.
A young plot of shrubs with intermittent trees will provide landscape

integration as the plants mature and visual interest due to the variety
of species in the mix
z Shrubs with some trees will provide nesting opportunities and song perches for birds, and
management will need to be tailored to maintain this balance of structure.
z This type of plot can be used for glimpse views between trees to views outside the road, when the
trees will frame the view.
z Picture opposite is of a dormouse nest in bramble , note if during scrub clearance this is
encountered work should stop and specialist advice sought from an ecologist.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/26
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
Cl
PR
TA
CT
AW
AC
MPS MPD
Integration
manage plots so that species reflect local vegetation characteristics
Visual Amenity
maintain a variety of shrub species, form and colour in bold blocks
Visual Screening
retain dense planting of shrubs for low-level screening

allow trees to grow to a height and form to provide some
intermittent high-level screening
Nature Conservation
encourage native species, using fruiting and flowering plants
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
Cl
C
TA
AW
AC
MPD
Cleaning
Coppice
Aftercare
Management of pests and diseases
T
Thinning
Pr
Pruning
CT
Chemical treatments
E
Enrichment
5/27

5.14 SHRUBS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Consider the needs of protected and BAP species and monitor for likely environmental impacts and
the effects of management. Reference to any database will be required.
z Maintenance of clearances will be important. Work should always avoid leaving the poorly flailed
hedge look. Consider a change to species that are slower growing or do not spread as rapidly, also
consider cutting back shrubs more severely at the time of planned cutting operations, removing the
front row altogether or using other cutting techniques, e.g., reciprocating saw.
z Shrubs can make access for surveying difficult and so consider removing them at an early stage or
manage to keep them young and small.
z As shrub species do not tend to get too tall there may not be a need to thin them for stability
reasons, although they may need to be thinned for other reasons, such as providing different age
structures or preventing encroachment onto grassland. Be aware that suckering species, such as
blackthorn or dogwood, will soon grow back after coppicing.
Shrubs such as hazel and goat willow used in central

reservation as they do not grow too tall or spread too far thereby
minimising thinning, work to reinstate clearances and traffic
management
z Shrubs often flower and fruit heavily, attracting wildlife. This may not be desirable where there are
safety conflicts. Refer to HA advice notes Birds and Roads and Badgers for consideration of
issues.
Shrubs have been used here to screen cutting from the road but allow views
from residents over the top. Tree species have been periodically taken out as
they are too tall
z Landscape Managers should be aware that shrub areas are often used for low-level screening
where it is necessary to keep the height of the vegetation below a certain height. Management may
need to be focused on removing taller species.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/28
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
Cl
PR
TA
CT
RP
AC
MPS
Integration
maintain structure and composition of shrub blocks as an edge to adjacent

woodlands and to link with vegetation off site
Visual Amenity
maintain a variety of shrub species, plant form and colour in bold blocks
Visual Screening
retain dense planting of shrubs with evergreen content for low level
screening to soften long distance views and reduce impact of junctions
Nature Conservation
encourage native species, using fruiting and flowering plant

keep dense coverage for low foraging birds and mammals
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
Cl
C
TA
RP
AC
Cleaning
Coppice
Replant
Aftercare
T
Thinning
PR
Pruning
CT
Chemical treatments
E
Enrichment
5/29
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.15 SCATTERED TREES
z As trees get older their biodiversity value increases. Hole dwellers such as bats and jackdaws are an
issue to be taken account of. Landscape managers need to be aware of the legislation regarding
protected species and the need for inspections by qualified personnel. Scattered trees can function
as stepping stones of suitable habitat.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Signs such as staining below holes can indicate the presence of bats. The picture below is of a
noctule bat roost in an oak tree.
These trees will eventually grow to three times their present height and therefore be
capable of reaching the hard shoulder if they blow over. As they get older and bigger
there will be a need for frequent arboricultural inspections
z Scattered trees can be used to replicate a form of hedgerow or a parkland form of trees. Formative
pruning operations may be required to achieve this.
z Safety inspections will be critical as the trees get older. Refer to TRMM for inspection regime.
NOVEMBER 2004
z Assessments of likely environmental impacts and reference to any database prior to work should be
z Trees as they get older will require more arboricultural works to keep them safe and this should be
recognised in financial profiling.
5/30
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
MPS
AW
Cl
PR
TA
CT
RP
AC
MPD
Visual Amenity
encourage trees with distinct colour, form and size

maintain groups to break up scale of large areas of open grassland
Nature Conservation
retain tree canopy as habitat for birds and other species

use dead wood in habitat piles
maintain position of scattered trees to allow glimpsed and framed views

across to the wider landscapes and to link to landscapes where scattered
trees exist
maintain health and form of trees to allow to grow to maturity in the same
way as adjoining trees
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
MPS Management of protected and

PR
Pruning
CT
Chemical treatments
RP
Replant
MPD Management of pests and diseases
AW
Cl
TA
F
AC
Cleaning
Felling
Aftercare
Pollarding of individual trees can contribute markedly to a sense of place at river

crossings and in other riparian situations. This willow has been pollarded for the
first time at year 20, but could have been done earlier. However the tree needs
some stem strength before pollarding can be effective
NOVEMBER 2004
5/31

5.16 SCRUB
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Scrub can hold undesirable species, e.g., rabbits. Where this is a problem and control is needed,
the landscape manager should give consideration to removing the cover.
z Scrub, especially gorse, can become a fire risk especially as it matures. If it is appropriate to keep
gorse to achieve the Function, the landscape manager should consider a programme to manage it
and minimise this risk, rather than total removal. The risk of fire near to traffic means gorse can be
viewed as a high priority for removal close to the road.
Self-sown scrub in grassland, which is at an appropriate level of cover for this

landscape
z Scrub species can be bramble, gorse and hawthorn and are usually pioneer species.
z Scrub can spread rapidly, replacing valuable grassland habitats, especially after it has been
disturbed and when no mowing takes place.
z Scrub should be controlled in grassland areas to achieve the desired Function. However, it may be
desirable for an area to change into scrub, as this will reduce maintenance in the longer term (if this
fits in with the overall Landscape Management Plan).
z Scrub can be a valuable habitat in its own right for nesting birds, reptiles, dormice and invertebrates.
Assessments of likely environmental impacts and reference to any database prior to work starting
should be made.
NOVEMBER 2004
z Gorse regeneration can establish under certain conditions, particularly without grassland
management.
z If control is practised from when the new road is constructed, then costs of control will be much
cheaper in the long run. This is because scrub exploits bare ground well, once the grass sward has
closed, the seeds find it more difficult to enter the soil and germinate. So to get the most return out
of scrub control expenditure it must be carried out early.
z English Natures Scrub Management Handbook also contains useful information (see Reference
section).
5/32
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

Biodiversity
Objectives
Techniques
C
RC
CT
TA
RP
AC
MPS
encourage growth of desirable scrub species employing techniques for establishing

new planting where appropriate
apply control measures to contain growth
enrich scrub to allow conversion into structured planting

prevent succession where desirable to retain scrub as habitat
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
C
CT
RP
E
Coppice
Chemical treatments
Replant
Enrichment
RC
TA
AC
MPS
Aftercare
Bramble scrub opposite is invading open grassland due to lack of management, with the
exception of the 1 metre swathe cut at the edge of the carriageway. Eventually open grassland
will close over and be lost if the bramble is not controlled. Control could be by periodicaly
flailing or by cutting and chemical treatment
NOVEMBER 2004
5/33

5.17 AMENITY TREE AND SHRUB PLANTING
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z The edges of towns and the urban fringe are increasingly under pressure from the installation of
services in the highway verge that may have an impact on the planting on the soft estate. Smaller
areas will be available for vegetation and those that do remain will have to be more intensively
managed.
z Litter trapped in areas of tree and shrub planting is a visual problem. This is especially evident
during the winter months when litter is exposed amongst deciduous shrubs. Consider more frequent
litter collection in the winter months.
Limited trees and shrubs create visual interest and screening.

They integrate the road into the edge of town area, where there
is often little scope for mass woodland planting
z Amenity tree and shrub planting is often in semi-urban or urban areas so clearance from overhead
services , electricity and telephone tends to be an issue with these plots, and liaison with statutory
undertakers is essential.
z Planted trees are vulnerable to damage from vandalism and road salt, especially in urban areas, so
protection and sighting are issues to be considered.
z Urban and semi urban planting will generally require more frequent management than that in rural
areas. Consultation with adjacent occupiers is often advisable before thinning or removal operations
take place. Safety is also often an issue here.
NOVEMBER 2004
z Amenity tree and shrub planting is often related to footways. Control of encroachment and
maintaining access for personal safety may be important.
5/34
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
WC
PR
CT
RP
AC
MPD
in rural/urban interface provide amenity planting to reflect the adjacent vegetation in

species and scale
Visual Amenity
encourage a mix of non-native and native plants to thrive, providing interest in colour,
form, texture and design
retain and develop plants to enhance the built environment, providing settings and
character
Visual Screening
keep planting dense and high

retain evergreen planting

Biodiversity
manage to enhance fruiting and flowering species where appropriate

form variety of structures/habitats
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
WC
T
RP
AC
MPD
Weed control
Thinning
Replant
Aftercare
PR
CT
E
Pruning
Chemical treatments
Enrichment
Picture opposite shows narrow belts of vegetation in urban areas which are often crucial
to residents but difficult and costly to maintain. These are often sensitive areas to
maintain and discussion with the local community may be useful prior to works starting.
The footway obviously needs to be kept clear of vegetation
NOVEMBER 2004
5/35

5.18 ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Entrapment of litter may be a problem in some urban areas and is often most noticeable in the
winter months when it will be exposed around deciduous shrubs.
z Maintenance of clearances will be an issue for this type of planting particularly adjacent to footways.
z Treatment of arisings from thinning and pruning will need to be considered in terms of public safety,
appearance and nuisance. Arisings will normally need to be taken off site.
z Ornamental planting is likely to require more frequent pruning than native planting.
z Often amenity planting will have smaller and smaller three-dimensional spaces in which to exist as
increasing amounts of high street furniture are erected. Management will need to balance increasing
harsh pruning requirements against removal.
Ornamental shrub planting provides visual interest at the

entrance to a commercial development
z This type of planting is usually found in semi-urban or urban areas and or used for gateway
features.
z Urban dwellers expect higher standards of maintenance. A tidy appearance is often more desirable
here but this could mean that biodiversity value is reduced.
z Ornamental planting tends to be in larger, single species blocks for visual impact, in keeping with the
scale of the road and speed of traffic, with accent or contrast plantings. This type of planting is at
greater risk of losses due to pest and disease infestation. Monitoring will be required more frequently
and periodic localised replanting may be necessary.
In the picture above it will be important to keep the grass from spilling
over and obscuring the cheverons
NOVEMBER 2004
5/36
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
WC
PR
TA
CT
RP
AC
MPD
Visual Amenity
provide visual variety and impact

provision of all the year round interest using flower, berry and stem effect
creation of landmark features or special entrances
addition of colour and/or contrast in hard surroundings

substitute for grass in areas with poor access or where grades are too steep for
economic cutting and grass looks unsightly
visual integration with the urban or outer urban setting

soften the appearance of the road and related structures
Visual Screening
screen or visually separate the road from adjoining activities and uses
both physically and visually separate carriageways
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
WC
T
CT
AC
Weed control
Thinning
Chemical treatments
Aftercare
PR
TA
RP
MPD
Pruning
Treatment of arising
Replant
5/37
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.19 GROUNDCOVER
z Refer to issues in Section 5.17, which also apply to groundcover.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Groundcover has a tendency to spread out of its planting block into other shrubs or onto hard
surfacing. Cutting back operations should plan for additional visits or over pruning to extend the time
between visits.
z The use of mulches whilst helping to preserve moisture and reduce the need for watering, must be
considered carefully. Mulch cannot be allowed to spread onto foot or roadways. Generally mulches
made up of lighter smaller particles should be avoided, as they are easily blown or washed away.
Ornamental planting showing use of groundcover, which at present

is contained off the highway. Monitoring will be required and action
taken to cut back any planting that overspills
Even in established ground cover the odd weed can spoil the
whole effect
NOVEMBER 2004
5/38
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
WC
PR
CT
RP
AC
Visual Amenity
provide visual variety and impact

provision of all the year round interest using evergreen, colour and en masse planting
addition of colour and/or contrast in hard surroundings

substitute for grass in areas with poor access or where grades are too steep for economic cutting and grass
looks unsightly
visual integration of areas with limited maintenance access into the wider landscape context
soften the appearance of the road and related structures
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
WC
CT
AC
Weed control
Chemical treatments
Aftercare
PR
RP
Pruning
Replant
5/39
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.20 CLIMBERS AND TRAILERS
z Many climbers and trailers require support which will need inspection and repairs.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Climbers can spread rapidly, often up walls and fences where they are unwanted and regular
inspections should be made. Liaison should be undertaken with engineers in dealing with issues
relating to structures.
z Unanchored trailers, i.e., not self-clinging can blow around in vehicle slipstreams and may provide a
Trailers planted at top of wall have cascaded over. However, as
they are unanchored they may be moved by vehicle turbulence
safety hazard. Consider use of self-clinging species or provide support.
z Climbers have potential to provide refuge for species such as bats and birds.
z Climbing plants on structures such as bridges and retaining walls can make structural inspections
difficult.
z Consider using evergreen climbers where deciduous climbers will cause substantial leaf fall onto the
carriageway below.
Note deciduous climbers will cause leaf fall often directly onto the carriageway
Any vehicles parked here will require traffic management
NOVEMBER 2004
5/40
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
WC
PR
CT
RP
AC
Visual Screening
in association with structures and boundaries to soften and screen the road
addition of interest, colour and/or contrast in hard surroundings
disguise the divide between hard and soft landscape
Visual Amenity
climbers provide interest and features through scale, colour and form
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
WC
CT
AC
Weed control
Chemical treatments
Aftercare
PR
RP
Pruning
Replant
5/41

5.21 ORNAMENTAL SPECIES HEDGES
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Species for replacement should be carefully chosen for tolerance to salt and pollution. This applies
particularly to evergreen species.
z Ornamental hedges will need to be trimmed in urban situations often at high frequency, depending
on the species.
z Fast growing species such as Lleyland cypress hedges should be avoided as they shade out other
plants, have little wildlife value and present future maintenance liabilities. Landscape managers
should be aware of the current legislation.
z Arisings will often have to be taken away in urban situations, for cleanliness and tidiness.
z Clearance distances from footways will need to be maintained.
z The points for sections 5.16 5.19 also apply here.
Ornamental species hedges provide visual amenity and enhance the

built environment. Cypress hedge above will need trimming five to eight times
a year to maintain a tight clipped look
z Note there is a need to keep the hedge from obstructing the footway.
z Thorny hedges are often not advisable in urban areas due to the difficulty of removing litter from
Laurel hedge above will only require cutting two or three times a year to maintain this
appearance
plant beds and the hazard to passing public.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/42
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
HC/L
Cl
WC
TA
RP
AC
Visual Amenity and Enhance

the Built Environment
by the use of colour and form of species to provide interest

to retain formal nature and to define spaces by regular cutting
Visual Screening
retain evergreen species with height and density
maintaining continuous linear features without gaps will link and reinforce linear urban features
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
HC/L Hedge cut/lay

WC Weed control
RP
Replant
Cl
TA
AC
Cleaning
Aftercare
5/43

5.22 NATIVE SPECIES HEDGE (TRIMMED)
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z In non-motorway situations, hedges are rarely the responsibility of the highway authority and should
be maintained on both sides by the landowner. However, the highway authority has the power to
intervene if the hedge becomes a hazard.
z Assessment of likely environmental impacts should be carried out before work is carried out and
reference made to any database. Hedges have importance as a BAP habitat.
z The effectiveness of hedges to form stock proof barriers requires the encouragement of dense
growth early in the hedges establishment period.
z Timing of operations needs careful consideration, e.g., hedge laying in winter to avoid nesting birds
and winter trimming to avoid loss of invertebrate larva, e.g., brown hairstreak butterfly.
z Cutting is best in late winter after berries have been eaten by wildlife. Routine annual hedge
trimming suppresses berries and other fruit.
z It is difficult to replant small gaps in a hedge it may be better filled, laying existing plants, by laying
short sections to fill a gap, or layering by pegging stems into the ground to create new plants.
z The treatment of arisings needs to be carefully considered in a roadside situation and may dictate
the type of technique, flail to be used.
z When considering laying hedges adopting local styles can help regional identity.
z Hedgerow height may be important in views to and from the road and so will dictate the choice of
species and management. Refer to Section 5.22.3.
Trimmed native species hedge close to the roadside provides integration, but needs
annual or biannual trimming to keep vegetation off carriageway.
Maintenance of this hedge is likely to be the responsibility of the landowner. The
highway authority can intervene if the hedge becomes a hazard
Roadside hedges which are for visual screening may require annual trimming to
make sure they retain their density. This is especially so for taller hedges as they
tend to lose their density at the top
NOVEMBER 2004
5/44
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
HC/L
Cl
WC
RP
AC
TA
MPS
link land uses, woodland, individual trees and other countryside features
reinforces highway boundary and stock proof fencing associated with agricultural land

Biodiversity
dense continuous linear features with native species diversity to form wildlife corridors,
refuges and food sources
Visual Amenity
variety of species colour with flowering and berries
Heritage
rejuvenation to maintain historical landscape character
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
HC/L Hedge cut/lay

RP
Replant
TA
Cl
Cleaning
E
Enrichment
WC
AC
Weed control
Aftercare
5/45

5.23 NATIVE SPECIES HEDGEROWS
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z In England roadside hedges on trunk roads are not the responsibility of the highway authority. The
landowners should maintain the hedge. Occasionally agreements have been reached with
landowners for the highway authority to maintain a hedge where, for example an overgrown,
unmaintained hedge would cause a safety hazard to road users. Motorway hedges are nearly
always the responsibility of the highway authority. Ownership of hedges should be checked whilst
planning landscape management work.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
Native species hedgerows providing good landscape integration,

tying in with adjacent hedgerows. These will also provide linking
corridors for wildlife
z Reference to any database and an assessment of likely environmental impacts should be completed
This hedgerow has been cut by the farmer on the field side and top
but uncut on the highway side. It is far enough from the carriageway
not to cause a problem but may restrict access to the cut off drain at
the top of the batter
before work is carried out.
z Timing of operations needs careful consideration, e.g., hedge laying in winter to avoid nesting birds.
z Hedgerows are often vital wildlife corridors and management should aim to retain this connectivity.
z It is difficult to replant small gaps in a hedge, or introduce new woody species and usually better to
manipulate the existing plants, if necessary laying short sections to fill a gap, or layering by pegging
stems into the ground to create new plants.
z Where the hedgerow has a screening function more frequent cyclical operations or phased
maintenance may be needed to sustain the screening function.
z Hedgerow height may be a critical point in views to and from the road and so will dictate the choice
of species.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/46
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
HC/L
Cl
WC
RP
AC
TA
MPS
Visual Screening
dense, tall hedges with evergreen content to screen views to and from the carriageway
using local, indigenous species use same form of hedgerow management to link to the
adjacent landscape

Biodiversity
to provide links between habitats

to protect adjacent fragile habitats
Visual Amenity
plant species provide rich seasonal variety of colours
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
HC/L Hedge cut/lay

RP
Replant
TA
Cl
Cleaning
E
Enrichment
WC
AC
Weed control
Aftercare
Cutting too early will stop late summer flowering shrubs such as honeysuckle from flowering.
Honeysuckle is valuable as a food source for dormice in hedgerows
NOVEMBER 2004
5/47
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.24 NATIVE HEDGEROWS WITH TREES
z Formative pruning may be required to trees to replicate the hedgerow form of tree.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Arboricultural issues for trees include safety inspections and assessments for tree-dwelling species.
z Other issues relevant to Native Hedgerows with trees are detailed in Section 5.22.
before work is carried out.
Hedgerow trees canopy can extend over the carriageway and safety and
arboricultural inspections will need to identify and deal with dead and dying
branches and have them made safe
NOVEMBER 2004
Due to proximity to traffic trees overhanging the carriageway or

close to will need frequent arboricultural inspections even though
they may be third party trees. Refer to TRMM or equivalent for advice
5/48
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Visual Screening
Objectives
Techniques
AW
PR
HC/L
Cl
WC
RP
AC
TA
MPS
dense, tall hedges with evergreen content to screen views to and from the
carriageway
trees allowed to grow to full height provide intermittent screens
using local, indigenous species use same form of hedgerow management

to provide links to adjacent landscapes

Biodiversity
to provide links between habitats

to protect adjacent fragile habitats
Visual Amenity
plant species provide rich seasonal variety of colours and added structure
with trees
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
AW
HC/L
WC
E
TA
Hedge cut/lay
Weed control
Enrichment
PR
Pruning
Cl
Cleaning
RP
Replant
AC
Aftercare
5/49

5.25 INDIVIDUAL TREES
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Veteran trees are ancient trees of great landscape and wildlife value because of their form/structure
and decaying/dead wood. Safety on the highway is paramount but veteran trees should be
maintained where possible and managed to ensure their long-term survival and value.
z Good liaison and coordination between engineering and landscape managers, public utilities and
local authorities is a key factor in successful tree management. Consultation should take place well
in advance of any intended action to or within the vicinity of street trees.
z The public, especially local residents, should also be informed of major tree works including pruning,
removal and replacement that are likely to affect them.
z As trees get older, inspections and specialist management become more necessary and frequent.
Refer to TRMM or equivalent for inspection regime.
z Older trees can provide holes and crevices for protected species. Assessments of likely
environmental impacts should be made prior to works. In addition consult any database for
information. Early nesting species such as rooks can dictate earlier work times. Picture below is of a
jackdaw nest.
z Individual trees can be focal points to where the eye is drawn. Therefore good shape and health will
Established trees provide visual interest and a sense of maturity
in this lowland landscape
NOVEMBER 2004
be paramount for this type of tree.
z Below ground works should be undertaken with care, consider hand digging in the root zone.
5/50
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
AW
RP
CT
AC
MPS
to reflect the features in the surrounding landscape

and Visual Amenity
tree species and form to provide continuity and identity in urban settings, separating the road from
adjacent land uses and softening the built environment
seasonal interest

Biodiversity
native trees, especially fruiting trees, support wildlife

trees act as song posts for birds, bat roosts and perches for some predatory species
Heritage
retain avenues planted during interwar years which provide distinctive character
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
AW
RP
AC
Replant
Aftercare
F
Felling
CT
Chemical treatments
Picture opposite shows a branch that has been pulled off by a digger bucket excavating a
trench for communication cable. Ultimately this may lead to a weakness and structural
failure. Branch should have been removed by saw to avoid this
NOVEMBER 2004
5/51

5.26 WATERBODIES AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Waterbodies often have high biodiversity interest. Specialist assessments may need to be
undertaken prior to maintenance. Some waterbodies may be connected to statutory main rivers or
IDB drains; consultation with EA/local drainage boards (and other national equivalents) may be
necessary.
z Alien plant species such as Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzanium), Japanese knotweed
(Fallopia japonica var japonica), Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera), Australian swamp
stonecrop (Crassula helmsii), Parrots feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) and Floating pennywort
(Hydrocotyle ranunculoides) can be very invasive, affecting native species and causing loss of
function of waterbodies. The landscape manager should, where necessary, liaise with the
appropriate environment agency in the control of invasive weeds. Further information and advice on
specific control can be obtained from the Centre for Aquatic Plant Management at Rothamstead
Research Station.
z Trees close to the south side of waterbodies will impede light and it may be necessary to remove or
control these.
z Riparian vegetation can also provide valuable breeding habitat as well as connectivity along the
watercourse. The impact on protected and/or BAP species should always be assessed.
z Access to waterbodies requires careful planning and often permission from adjacent landowners.
z Uses of herbicides along waterbodies needs care, thought and, where necessary, consultation with
the relevant environmental agency.
prior to work.
z Cyclical cleaning out of waterbodies may be required to stop silting up and succession.
Riparian vegetation can provide valuable breeding habitat and

connectivity along a watercourse. Management should take
account of impact on flora and fauna
Waterbodies constructed as part of the highway network may have overriding water balancing
and/or water treatment functions (refer to Section 5.31). Management must aim to maintain
these functions and not compromise them. The landscape manager should refer to DMRB
advice note Volume 4, Section 2, Part 1, Vegetative Treatment Systems for Highway Runoff,
particularly Chapter 6.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/52

z Waterbodies can provide a hazard for motorists and often require safety fencing, which in turn will
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Himalayan Balsam infesting and blocking culvert
need to be maintained free of vegetation.
z Waterbodies can have water treatment or storage as primary functions, so liaison with water
specialists will be necessary to ensure nature conservation interests do not compromise these main
purposes.
Vegetation from nearby thinning has found its way into the
watercourse and may cause flooding if not removed
Outfall needs to be kept clear of vegetation
z Submergent or floating vegetation can block filters, sluices and other controlled devices if not
managed.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/53
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
CWB
TA
RP
MPS

Biodiversity
to maintain a balance of open water to associated vegetation to provide habitat and nature conservation
interests
Visual Amenity and Landscape

Integration
to retain open waterbodies to provide attractive feature within the wider landscape
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
CWB Cleaning of waterbodies

RP
Replant
TA
E
Enrichment
5/54

5.27 BANKS AND DITCHES
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Chemical control of weeds is sometimes employed along drains as part of routine maintenance of
the whole route. The relevant environmental agency should be consulted if using herbicides near
watercourses.
z Management of banks should consider aspect. Certain flora, butterflies and reptiles favour south
facing slopes.
z Swales are shallow vegetated ditches designed to filter and slow the flow of runoff to watercourses
to improve water quality and flood alleviation. In order to properly function, swales require a height of
vegetation, usually grass, of between 100 and 200mm. Arisings will need to be removed when cut
(refer to DMRB Volume 4, Section 2, Part 1).
Floristically rich banks and ditches can provide nature

conservation interest. Ditch maintenance programmes
should be timed and organised to minimise disruption
to the habitat
Landscape Managers should recognise a balance will need to be struck between maintenance
regimes which allow banks and ditches to retain their engineering/drainage functions whilst
developing vegetation with a nature conservation/biodiversity interest.
z Ditch maintenance requires an integrated approach by all resource managers to achieve the most
Ditch which has been cleaned, arisings deposited adjacent which is better for wildlife to
recolonise but ditch profile is not ideal for wildlife being too steep, However ditch designed for
drainage primarily
environmentally sound form of management. Ditches may hold water vole populations or other
protected species, whilst banks may contain reptiles. Reference to any database and assessments
will need to be made before cleaning commences.
z Water quality is affected by run off and spillage of herbicides and needs to be considered in
management operations close to ditches.
z Management of ditches should aim to maintain and enhance biodiversity, whilst allowing water
passage.
Ash growing in ditch will in time block ditch and should have been removed. Note restricted
use of chemicals to treat stump near watercourses
NOVEMBER 2004
5/55
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
CWB
TA
RP
MPS
Water Quality
to maintain capacity of feature to hold and transport water and to protect the road from flooding

Biodiversity
to allow vegetation on ditch and bank sides to provide conservation value
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique

RP
Replant
TA
E
Enrichment
Roadside ditch in late summer. This ditch was cleaned In the

preceding winter showing how quickly riparian vegetation can
recolonise the banks
NOVEMBER 2004
5/56

5.28 REED BEDS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Reed beds can provide breeding areas for birds; control of the reeds needs to take account of this.
Before carrying out works, an assessment of likely environmental impacts including reference to any
database should be carried out.
z Reed beds may have primary water treatment functions, so liaison with water specialists or
engineers may be necessary (refer to Section 5.31).
z Reed beds may require regular cutting to prevent a build up of litter and succession to scrub.
z Reed beds can be provided for treatment of run off either from road drainage or toilet blocks. In this
situation refer to DMRB Vol 4 Section 2 Part 1.
Reed bed starting to develop this will keep expanding until it

covers the water surface. Management will be periodically needed
to control its expansion
z Reed beds provide nature conservation interest, visual amenity and integration, however their main
purpose is generally water treatment.
z Reed beds can spread rapidly under favourable conditions and open water conditions can soon be
lost. It may be necessary to manage this and contain where necessary.
NOVEMBER 2004
z Willow carr above is gradually invading reed bed. Management will need to address not just
removing willow but also water levels to reverse this.
5/57
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
CWB
TA
RP
MPS
to maintain reed beds to integrate into surrounding areas where reed beds occur

Biodiversity
to provide a valuable wetland habitat
Visual Amenity
to retain and contain reeds to provide interest and variety and character to the highway verge
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004

RP
Replant
TA
MPS
5/58

5.29 MARSH AND WET GRASSLAND
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z When controlling vegetation, take care to avoid impact on protected species. Consult any database
and undertake environmental assessment prior to work. To reduce impact on nesting birds,
vegetation removal should be left until late summer or autumn.
z The maintenance of an appropriate water table is important. The landscape manager should be
aware of any changes that may result from wider engineering activities.
z Marsh and wet grassland can quickly become willow or alder carr if not controlled.
z Timing of management can be difficult. Ground may be flooded in winter and not accessible by
machinery.
Ragged robin and indicator of wet grassland growing on a

road verge
Meadowsweet is another indicator of wet grassland
z Marsh and wet grassland can provide integration, nature conservation and visual amenity.
z Marsh and wet grassland can contain a variety of habitat types and support protected species.
Landscape Management Plans should reflect local conditions and requirements.
NOVEMBER 2004
5/59
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
CWB
TA
RP
MPS
maintenance of marsh and wet grassland habitat to reflect that of adjoining habitat

Biodiversity
manage the variety of habitats that may occur (open water, damp grassland and scrub) to increase diversity
Visual Amenity
retain to provide interest and variety and character to the highway verge
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004

RP
Replant
TA
MPS
5/60

5.30 HARD LANDSCAPE FEATURES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Planting associated with hard features, e.g., crib walling and raised beds, will often require
management. Liaison with engineers over maintenance of these features will always be required.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Vegetation can sometimes damage the function of a hard feature. When this is the case,
consideration should be given to removing the vegetation from the feature.
Vegetation may
require occasional
cleaning off.
Vegetation to
be kept clear
of walkway
Pedestrian area shows hard landscape features that form part

of the roadside environment
z Reptiles are often found in dry-stone walls and hedgebanks, assessments may be necessary in
advance of any work.
Stone walls provide landscape integration and visual amenity
z Some hard features are less than visually attractive and so opportunities may exist to use vegetation
to obscure or take the eye away from such detractors.
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
HFM
Screening
Visual Amenity
retain in good state of repair and intact
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
HFM Hard feature maintenance
It will be important in picture opposite to prevent vegetation from obsuring footpath,

but also to prevent vegetation from blocking light cone from street light above
NOVEMBER 2004
5/62

5.31 NOISE BARRIERS BUILT ELEMENTS
NOISE REDUCING EARTHWORKS
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Planting established on cutting slopes and earth bunds is often perceived by the general public as
contributing to noise mitigation. Thus thinning vegetation on these may be seen as unacceptable by
the public and careful explanation may be necessary and will need to be dealt with sensitively.
z Vegetation that may hinder the performance of a noise barrier should be removed. Liaison with
structural engineers may be necessary. If this is not the case then retention of vegetation may be
considered to improve the appearance of the noise barrier.
A noise bund between

road and housing. As
the planting matures it
will provide secondary
functions of visual
screening and amenity
Noise barrier to provide auditory amenity vegetation can help

to soften its appearance, but must not be allowed to
compromise its function
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
RC
GC
WC
Auditory Amenity
maintain intact to reduce the impact of noise on the surrounding areas
Visual Screening
barriers and earthworks if maintained will provide screening of the road and traffic
Visual Amenity
earthworks which are planted and maintained will provide visual amenity for residents
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004
RC
WC
Weed control
GC
Grass cutting
5/64
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.32 WATER POLLUTION CONTROL MEASURES SURFACE WATER

OUTFALLS SOAKAWAYS
z An environmental assessment and reference to any database should be part of the routine process
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Refer to management advice set out in DMRB Volume 4, Section 2, Part 1 Vegetative Treatment
of management. This should consider vegetation removal, silt deposition and the presence of
protected species.
Systems for Highway Runoff.
z Management and maintenance of these systems must not interfere or degrade the primary hydraulic
and pollution treatment function. For systems using vegetative control measures, a management
plan should be prepared, setting out the systems objectives and an annual programme of
maintenance.
z For certain pesticides with a watercourse buffer zone requirement, which are applied via a ground
crop or hand held sprayer, there is a legal obligation to carry out and record the results of a Local
Environmental Risk Assessment For Pesticides (LERAP). By carrying out and complying with that
LERAP, users may be able to reduce the size of buffer zone required.
z Consideration should be made to the potential pollution of ground waters when using herbicides in
the vicinity of soakaways (refer to Section 6.3.3).
z Liaison with water specialists and relevant environmental agency may be necessary in planning
works.
Balancing pond, performing the primary function of water quality, but also
providing valuable habitat for wetland flora and fauna
z Landscape managers need to be aware of the need for periodic cleaning, dredging, and cutting back
of vegetation. The timing of any operations and any licensing requirements will need to be carefully
considered.
z Landscape managers should ensure that access to these features is maintained.

z When dry, soakaways and balancing ponds may not be obvious features, but need to be kept clear
of shrubs and trees so that access to any drainage systems is always available.
Pollution containment ditch to which access must be maintained

NOVEMBER 2004
5/65
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Objectives
Techniques
CWB
TA
MPS
Water Quality
maintain hydraulic and/or pollution treatment function to protect surface watercourses and groundwaters
Visual Amenity
balancing ponds can provide interest and conservation value

Biodiversity
to manage the variety of habitats that may develop to increase wildlife interest
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
NOVEMBER 2004

TA
5/66

5.33 PROTECTED SPECIES ECOLOGICAL PROTECTION MEASURES
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Landscape Managers need to be aware that protected species may occur anywhere in the soft
estate. Maintenance and improvement schemes may affect species or their habitats and the
highways authority has a legal obligation to protect them. In addition BAP species or habitats could
also be present. Reference to any database and an environmental assessment should be
undertaken before work is started. Licences or other permissions may need to be obtained.
z Refer to Advice Notes in DMRB Vol 10 for specific species advice.

z Refer to relevant BAPs (refer to Table 8.1) for overall focus and biodiversity targets.
Badger gates require
inspection and
maintenance to ensure
they are still functioning.
The gate in this photograph
is missing
z Refer to any database for presence of species as part of desk studies.

z Local Biological Record Centres may hold information for nearby records.
z Landscape Managers should consider post implementation works, such as monitoring.
z When wildlife reflectors are used, vegetation needs to be controlled so that they are not obscured.
Bird boxes can provide

nesting opportunities in
young woodland
Otter ledge under

bridge with adjacent
fencing to guide
animals to the ledge.
Ledge only used in
times of high flow
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

Biodiversity
Objectives
Techniques
manage habitats to maximise species potential and keep protection operational
Cl
TA
MPS
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
Cl
Cleaning
TA
Badger fence erected to protect animals from crossing onto a motorway
NOVEMBER 2004
5/68
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
5.34 INJURIOUS WEEDS

LEGISLATED PESTS
z Cutting can be a useful management tool where a quick response is needed.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES
z Consider the impact of chemicals on non-target species, e.g., selective weed killer used on ragwort
z Disposal of ragwort/knotweed must be to a licensed waste disposal site.

may affect wildflower species.
z Refer to TRMM, WTRMM or other national equivalent for guidance over standards.
z In England DEFRA have published the Control of Ragwort Act 2003. Refer to this where appropriate.
z Below the application of chemicals to Japanese Knotweed adjacent to the footpath may need the
public to be excluded during application and possibly afterwards as well.
Recognising the probkem can be an issue. In the pricture above

common ragwort in the rear and tansey at the front can often be
confused with each other
z An integrated approach by highway managers should be applied to the control of noxious weeds so
that operations are not carried out in isolation. Those carried out in conjunction with neighbouring
landowners are most cost effective.
z Use of chemicals to control weeds or pests may be cost effective but publicly unacceptable. In
making decisions about the method of control, the landscape manager needs to recognise any
conflicting views.
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

Biodiversity
Objectives
Techniques
enforce control measures

management of vegetation for cover and habitat
WC
MPD
Key to symbols
Primary EF
Secondary EF
Main technique
Optional technique
WC
Weed control
MPD Management of pests and diseases
Japanese knotweed that was growing in the central reservation obscuring

visibility at a cross over. Initially this had been cut down but this allowed the
plant to continue so it was then sprayed before it got above the height of
the barrier
NOVEMBER 2004
5/70
CHAPTER 6 TECHNIQUES
6.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
INTRODUCTION
z Chapter 6 considers the techniques of landscape management listed in the tables in Chapter 5.
z Each section begins with an introduction to a particular technique and its application to highway
management and then considers how that technique may be applied in practice. Each section
concludes with a list of issues that the manager should consider whilst applying the technique within
the highway network. The list of issues are made up of those which have been found to be relevant
in the highway situation, but it is not exclusive and there may be other matters that will need to be
taken into account in specific situations. It is intended to provide things to think about when
considering choice of technique.
z As an example, Section 5.8 refers to woodland, which requires the application of thinning. Thinning
is described in Section 6.9. One of the considerations for landscape management in applying the
technique of thinning is the timing of the thinning work to minimise effects on wildlife found within the
soft estate.
z The choice of technique will be determined by the impact of the result. The impact could be
influenced by timing needs, cost, availability of plant and men, road space availability, effect on flora
and fauna, effect on neighbours and visual appearance. The landscape manager will need to
consider what result is needed and then choose the technique best suited to achieve this. See
chapter 4 Decision Making.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/1
6.2
GRASS CUTTING
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z In general, arisings can be left in situ, although they should be removed where grass cutting will
detract visually or where decomposing cuttings on footpaths pose a slip hazard or cuttings affect
working of drainage.
6.2.1 INTRODUCTION
z Grass cutting is generally carried out within the 1 3m wide swathe at the carriageway edge and
visibility splays to meet operational and safety requirements. The minimum requirements for the
maintenance of these areas for England are set out in TRMM part 1.10 (refer to Table 8.1 for other
administrations requirements). Other types of grassland requiring site specific specifications are:
Amenity grass areas
Grassland with bulbs
Species rich grassland
Open grassland
Grass reinforced earth walls.
z The techniques for grass cutting which follow can equally apply to TRMM cutting.
Amenity grassland being cut once on a port of entry location
z Cutting grass can leave a messy aftermath as litter is exposed this will be a temporary
phenomenon as the grass will regrow and hide the litter.
Swathe cut has been widened around signs to increase visibility

6.2.2 AMENITY GRASS AREAS
z Require a flexible mowing regime to maintain the grass between the required heights. The final
number of cuts will be specific to the location and landscape function.
z Local variations requiring an even higher frequency of cuts may be considered necessary in a high
profile location such as ports of entry.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/2
6.2.3 GRASSLAND WITH BULBS
z For spring flowering bulbs occurring in amenity grassland, cut the grass 6 weeks after flowering,
when flower and bulb leaves have died down. In general, the grass-cutting regime will begin in May.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Grass cutting must be timed to allow the species within the sward to flower and set seed. The timing
of the cut, which is related to the species in the sward, is usually carried out once per year, in July
(for spring meadow species) or September (for summer meadow species). The cuttings are raked
off and removed (refer to Section 5.4).
z For late flowering autumn bulbs, the grass should be close mown before the emergence of bulb
flowers and leaves. Grass cutting should be suspended whilst the bulb flowers, with grass cutting
resuming 6 weeks after flowering. Generally a grass cut will be required in October.
z For some areas where there is much dead growth remaining, a first cut can be carried out in March
before the wildflowers begin to grow, with the cuttings raked off and removed, with a further cut in
September. Where individual species are important, adapt the cutting regime to suit their needs.
Grass covering the bulbs has been left uncut to allow the bulbs to build
next years food store. However as the leaves die down the area will
begin to look visually untidy until they are removed
6.2.4 SPECIES RICH GRASSLAND

z Reference should be made to The Wildflower Handbook in Volume 10 Section 3 Part 1 of the
DMRB, for specific guidance on design and management of wildflower areas.
Removal of arisings can be labour intensive and traffic management

may be needed so areas need to be cost effective, ie mainly large areas
NOVEMBER 2004
6/3
6.2.5 OPEN GRASSLAND
z Grassland areas that visually intrude, such as large embankments or cuttings with uncut rough
grass adjacent to grazed pasture, can be cut in late summer to remove the flowering heads. This will
prevent the white/brown effect, which will otherwise last until the following spring.
z Grassland that has a specific weed problem or undesirable species occurring in the sward can
benefit from a mowing regime at a specific time relevant to the flowering of the weed infestation.
This can help eradicate problem species.
z The selection of grass cutting equipment is dependant on many factors, including safety, site
accessibility, topography, the intended frequency of use, quality of the finish and the size of the area
to be cut. Contractors will normally be responsible for the choice of appropriate machinery but the
following general points can be made.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Cylinder mowers provide a fine cutting edge to achieve a high quality finish. They are suitable
for use on large, level amenity grass areas. They cannot cope with very irregular ground and
are less robust when hitting obstacles and cannot cut grass that is too long or which contains
any woody vegetation.
z Rotary mowers tend to tear the grass when they cut and macerate the cuttings effectively. They are
suitable for most general-purpose swards and can handle tougher cutting jobs and irregular ground.
They are more versatile on banks and slopes and more tolerant of wet conditions.
z Flail mowers and mowers that use a reciprocating cutting edge are suitable for cutting long grass,
essential for species rich grasslands and rural roadside edges cut once or twice per year.
z Pedestrian operated mowers can be used for small areas (cutting width 30-60 cm) and cannot be
used on slopes greater than 1 in 4 in the interest of operator safety.
z Rideon mowers can drive from 2 4 cutting heads. Triple mowers are most common and they can
cut over 2 metres in width. These can be used on flat wide verges without obstructions.
z Tractor powered gang mowers will drive 5 7 mowing heads and are best used in large accessible
areas. They cannot work safely on slopes steeper than 1 in 5.
z Strimmers, shears and scythes are important ancillary equipment where the grass contains many
edges and obstacles.
z Rotary mowers and strimmers especially metal bladed clearing saws may throw stones into traffic.
6.2.6 GRASS REINFORCED EARTH WALLS
z Maintain a short grass sward to prevent vegetation drooping onto other plants on the wall and
inhibiting healthy growth. Failure to do so creates a patchwork of short lived vigorous weed growth
rather than long term grass.
z Strimming is the favoured method of vegetation cutting. This does not damage the plastic or metal
membranes that face the walls. Ensure a cutting height of at least 50mm.
z When carrying out re-seeding or renovation consider using innovative and bespoke grass seed
mixtures more suited to salt and dry conditions rather than standard off-the-shelf mixtures.
Open grassland being cut to control scrub regeneration. All grassland needs
to be cut otherwise it will be lost to scrub and trees through succession.
The frequency of cutting on open grassland may be between once a year
to every five years
NOVEMBER 2004
6/4
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.2.7 NOTES
z Sites should not be managed in isolation, but in the context of nearby habitats and their potential
z The number and timing of cuts required in a growing season should make allowance for:
the typical growth pattern during the year; with the main peak of growth in spring, a decline during
summer, and a second minor peak in autumn. This will result in a programme of mowing at
irregular intervals, i.e., more frequent mowing in spring and less frequent mowing during summer;
the relaxation of close mowing during periods of drought; and
the variation in growth, even within quite small areas, due to differences in soil type, water table
etc.
z In species rich grassland, factors to consider when deciding the timing and frequency of the cutting
regime include:
the cost effectiveness of tailoring cutting regimes to coincide with verge and general grass
maintenance;
timing cuts to minimise and control the spread of undesirable weed species, which may cause
nuisance to adjacent landowners.
wildlife value. This relates particularly to birds, insects, reptiles, small mammals and amphibians that
may live in hedges, plants or ponds adjacent to the highway and feed on or over the roadside.
z Cutting around obstacles, for example against walls, fences, bollards, posts, trees etc. is best
carried out each time mowing takes place. Any moveable obstructions such as seats and litterbins
should be removed to ease cutting. The grass should be cut to the same height as specified for the
surrounding grassed areas. Great care needs to be exercised when mowing near to trees so that the
tree stem is not damaged. Strimmers can be used to trim edges against obstacles that are
inaccessible to mowing.
z Mowing margins should be built into the edges of grassed areas where they abut safety barriers,
pedestrian guardrails etc. Wherever possible, mowing margins at corners should be designed to
accommodate the turning radii of the main mowing machines. However, it is often beneficial to leave
unmown margins around ecotones (e.g. next to hedgerows for wildlife).
z Consideration may be given to extending a swathe cut to the full width of the verge, where a
hedgerow, fence or footpath behind the verge would lead to a narrow unmown margin if tidiness
were a required objective.
Unsustainable
grass in central
reservation has
been recently
replaced with
hard surfacing
In amenity areas, although increasing costs, consider extending the 1 metre swathe cut up to
the boundary hedge. Leaving margins unmown can look unsightly, but offers conservation
potential if managed
NOVEMBER 2004
6/5
6.3
CHEMICAL TREATMENTS
6.3.1 INTRODUCTION
z Chemical treatments can be used to manipulate the establishment and growth of amenity planting in
a range of areas.
z Pesticides can be used to reduce competition from other plants, treat disease and counter pest
problems. The term pesticide covers herbicides, fungicides and insecticides.
z Fertilisers are available in various forms to address soil nutrient deficiencies.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.3.3 HERBICIDES
z Use of herbicides for weed control is discussed in more detail in Section 6.4. Herbicides can be
applied to kill all plant growth (total weed control) or to target weed species selectively. The method
of application can also be chosen to ensure non-target species are unaffected, e.g., spot treatment.
Only approved herbicides should be used.
z In addition to eliminating annual and perennial weed species, herbicides can also be used to prevent
regrowth of woody plants that have been felled. This may be useful following thinning operations or
to prevent regrowth of woody plants that are damaging or interfering with highway infrastructure. In
these cases, the herbicide is applied directly to the cut surface of the stump.
z Chemical growth retardants can be used to reduce maintenance inputs in areas that are difficult to
access (refer to section 6.3.7).
6.3.2 PESTICIDES
z The use of pesticides is strictly controlled through various Acts, Regulations and European
Directives. UK legislation includes the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
Regulations (2002), the Food and Environment Protection Act (FEPA) (1995) and the related Control
of Pesticides Regulations (CoPR) (1986).
z The Pesticide Safety Directorate (PSD), an executive agency of the Department for Environment,
Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA), is responsible for the registration of agricultural, horticultural, forestry
and home garden pesticides in England as well as advising the Government on pesticides policy.
The Environmental Policy Branch of the Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (DARD)
has the same responsibility in Northern Ireland.
z As pesticide approvals are constantly changing, the PSD now maintains an electronic version of
The Blue Book on its website - www.pesticides.gov.uk. This allows users to confirm the status of
pesticides in the UK. The website also provides a comprehensive listing of relevant legislation and
guidance, along with links to other organisations such as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
z Refer to the Code of practice for the safe use of pesticides on farms and holdings, otherwise known
as the Green Code, jointly prepared by MAFF, the Health and Safety Commission, and the
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions; and the Code of practice for suppliers
of pesticides to agriculture, horticulture and forestry, known as the Yellow Code.
z Wherever possible, measures that do not require the use of chemicals should be used in preference
to pesticide applications. In the case of weed control, however, herbicides may offer the only realistic
option to managers due to the relatively high cost of manual weeding.
z It is important to keep records as a management and auditing tool for pesticide use.
NOVEMBER 2004
Triclopyr being sprayed onto woody regrowth with knapsack sprayer.

Note use of coloured dye used for monitoring purposes
6/6
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.3.4 FUNGICIDES
z Fungicides are chemicals used to control diseases caused by pathogenic fungi. They interrupt the
cycle of fungal spore development, spore germination, infection or fungal growth within the plant
tissues.
z Fungicides either prevent infection or are used to kill a pathogen after infection has taken place. Due
Chemicals have been
sprayed onto regrowth
whilst small and the
dead stems will be
removed after roots are
dead
to the scale and nature of highway planting it is unlikely that fungicides would be employed within
amenity areas.
z If symptoms of infection are noticed, it is likely that the disease will be so far advanced that the only
option available is removal.
6.3.5 INSECTICIDES
z Unless an extreme infestation is encountered or a problem arises in a sensitive location, insecticides
are unlikely to be used in the highway estate. Specialist advice should be sought if problems arise.
6.3.6 FERTILISERS
z A wide range of fertilisers is available for use in amenity horticulture. The need for fertiliser can be
established through soil nutrient testing. The specific type of fertiliser required will depend on the
nutrient deficiencies identified. Slow release fertilizer can be used for tree and shrub establishment
but is not normally necessary.
Tree planting treated by

Herbicide
z The pollution problems caused by extensive use of agricultural nitrate fertilisers is well documented
and fertilisers should therefore be applied sparingly and in forms that minimise the risk of leaching,
e.g., slow-release tablets.
z Fertiliser application should be considered in amenity grass where the grass is showing signs of
stress or where nutrient levels are exceptionally low.
z The removal of clippings from the sward removes some of the nutrients, especially when the grass
is closely mown, and may necessitate the application of fertiliser. As clippings are returned on
verges there is generally little need for additional fertiliser applications.
z Where necessary, fertiliser should be applied at the beginning of the growing season. The
specification for the fertiliser should be decided upon in relation to the grass area to be treated.
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Large standards and semi-mature specimen trees most often used in urban situations may also
benefit from fertiliser treatment. Specialist techniques enable nutrients and soil conditioners to be
injected into the soil. This system can also help to reduce compaction and associated drainage
problems.
z Lack of nutrients and trace elements can lead to mature trees becoming stressed and therefore
more susceptible to infection. Specialist advice should be sought on the techniques that are
available, such as microinjection, to address this situation.
6.3.7 GROWTH RETARDANTS

z Growth retardants that reduce or modify the speed at which a plant grows are available for all types
of plants but have primarily been aimed at high value grass areas that require intensive
maintenance. Growth retardants can be used very effectively and have been used effectively to
reduce grass cutting in central reserves. The chemicals available include maleic hydrazide,
mefluidide and paclobutrazol. Growth retardants can however reduce floral species diversity.
z Maleic hydrazide can produce noticeable variations in the colour of the sward. It also requires a
continued dry spell as it is slowly absorbed and washed away by rainfall. Mefluidide, however, is
more rapidly absorbed and less likely to cause discoloration.
z Growth retardants have not been extensively used in the UK and are not used on Scottish trunk
roads. Specialist advice should be sought when considering their use.
6.3.8 NOTES
z Only herbicides approved for use in amenity horticulture applications (not agricultural applications)
should be used in landscape situations.
z Staff that are applying pesticides need to be fully trained and operate under the guidance of a holder
of the relevant recognised Certificates of Competence in the Safe Use of Pesticides. The certificates
that are needed are listed below:
PA1, Safe use of pesticides; PA3, Broadcast or Boom sprayer, (horizontal or vertical plane),
mounted or trailed; and PA6, Hand held applicators requiring minimal calibration.
PA1 and PA6 cover the handling, mixing and storage of pesticides and the cleaning, calibration
and use of hand-held and knapsack spraying equipment.
z Risk assessments should be prepared before pesticide operations commence. This should include a
desk based assessment of surface and ground waters, in order to avoid pollution.
z Care must be taken when using pesticides near water, including surface waters and ground water
aquifers. Glyphosate is approved for use on banks or ditches in close proximity to watercourses by
EA, however consultation with the relevant environmental agency is still required.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/8
6.4
WEED CONTROL
6.4.1 INTRODUCTION
z Weed control is an important issue in a number of landscape management situations. Within new
planting, effective weed control around the base of trees and shrubs is essential in order to eliminate
competition for water and nutrients.
z Control of aggressive broad-leaved weeds can be a problem within newly established grass areas.
Selective herbicides can be used as spot treatment for broad-leaved species (refer to Section 6.4).
z Total weed control is also important on paved areas and hard surfaces. Weed species not only make
an area look untidy but they can also cause physical damage to surfacing.
z The method of weed control selected will depend on the specific circumstances and the
management objectives for the site, e.g., chemical controls may not be appropriate to deal with
weeds within ornamental planting.
z Weed control techniques include:

use of herbicides;
hand-weeding;
organic mulches;
weed control mats/membranes;
frequent cutting; and
burning.
NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.4.2 HERBICIDES
(Also refer to Section 6.3)
z Chemical weed control in established shrub beds will generally be restricted to the use of:
contact or translocated herbicides (usually by spraying around the base of the cultivated plants).
3 4 applications per season are likely to be required in order to control weed growth;
selective herbicides which will specifically control weeds in grassland (applied during a period of
active growth) and;
the limited use of residual soil acting herbicides in areas where the soil is exposed. Applied in a
granular form to amenity planting before germination, i.e., January/February. This is generally
only an option in plots that have been established for a number of years.
z Within grass areas there may be a need to control invasive broad-leaved weeds such as dock and
thistle. Selective herbicides that only affect broad-leaved species are available for use in this
situation. Alternatively, weed species can be spot treated with a non-selective translocated herbicide
such as glyphosate.
z Herbicides can be applied using a range of methods, depending on specific circumstances.

Within new planting, conventional knapsack spraying equipment is most commonly used. The
use of spray hoods limits drift and reduces the risk of damage to trees and shrubs.
Spraying should be carried out in low wind conditions with the consideration of early morning
applications when wind is light, to minimise wind drift.
Controlled droplet application (CDA) is a more recent development that requires lower volumes of
water than conventional spraying. It is also claimed that drift is minimised and, in the case of
foliar-acting translocated herbicides, less active ingredient is required. These attributes make it a
more efficient technique than conventional spraying. CDA is a useful technique for treating weeds
in paved areas.
6/9
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.4.4 ORGANIC MULCHES

z The use of a mulch layer not only prevents weed establishment but also helps to retain soil moisture
during periods of dry weather.
z Bark and woodchip are generally used for mulching. Bark is used in association with ornamental
planting and woodchip in more naturalistic situations. The relatively high cost of bark means that
bark mulch is usually only a viable option for smaller areas of planting. Although woodchip is
significantly cheaper than bark and may be available from nearby thinning operations, the cost of
placing mulch may limit its use on large-scale schemes (the cost of herbicide is comparatively low).
z Mulch needs to be applied at sufficient depth in order to provide an adequate barrier to weed growth
after allowing for settlement (a depth of 75mm after settlement is usually adequate). Additional
mulch may be needed in following years to ensure the mulch layer is effective in preventing weed
growth.
z If woodchips are used they should be well composted, otherwise nitrogen levels can become
depleted and plants stressed. Alternatively a nitrate-rich fertiliser could be applied with the mulch to
aid breakdown.
Hand pulling of ragwort
z Various applicators are available for spot treatment of weeds that allow weed species to be
treated without harming the planting to be retained. Herbicides can be applied to weeds directly
using weed wipes. The use of weed wipes is under review due to the damage caused by the
dipping of herbicides on to desirable vegetation in the process of applying the chemicals to the
wipe. Refer to Section 6.3 for further guidance.
z Refer also to English Natures Herbicide Management Handbook (see Reference section).
6.4.3 HAND-WEEDING
z Where weeds are present in ornamental planting, such as groundcover on roundabouts or noxious
weeds in species rich grasslands, hand weeding may be the only realistic option for weed control.
Hand weeding is expensive in labour costs in comparison to other forms of weed control.
z It may be possible to combine hand weeding with the use of herbicides to treat species such as
Bindweed (Convolvulus spp) that are not eliminated by hand-weeding alone.
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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6.4.5 WEED CONTROL MEMBRANES AND MULCH MATS

z Various proprietary weed control systems are available for landscape planting. Like mulch, these
systems not only prevent weed competition but also retain soil moisture in dry periods.
z Membranes can be used throughout plots to provide total weed control. Over time, membranes can
become damaged or disturbed (by wind or pedestrian traffic) and therefore become ineffective and
untidy or a traffic safety hazard. When used on large-scale schemes, the membranes can have a
significant visual impact. This should be considered when selecting membrane materials and
colours. A further disadvantage of membranes is that they do not allow understorey vegetation to
develop.
z Individual mulch mats (each secured by a number of pegs) can be used in association with native
tree and shrub planting. Mulch mats are relatively expensive compared to a programme of herbicide
applications but reduce the ongoing maintenance commitment (annual checks still need to be made
to ensure mats are secure and effective). Like membranes, the mats can become dislodged by high
winds, creating a traffic safety hazard. Particularly in exposed locations or on slopes they should be
anchored securely.
Mats may also provide cover for invertebrate herbivores, leading to higher plant losses from
predation.
6.4.6 CUTTING
z Frequent cutting of aggressive weed species to a height of 50 75mm before flowering can be used
to help prevent the establishment of problem weeds, especially when combined with herbicide
treatment.
6.4.7
BURNING
z Flame-guns have been used for weed control of paved areas in locations such as the central
reserve. As burning is non-selective, it has limited use as a method of weed control and does not kill
the roots of perennial weeds.
6.4.8 NOTES
z Refer to Section 6.3 for considerations for landscape management related to chemical treatments.
z The Environment Agency, Welsh Development Agency and others have carried out extensive
research into the most effective methods of control for species such as Japanese knotweed and
giant hogweed. These involve an ongoing programme of cutting and herbicide application. Specific
details are available from these organisations.
z A weed-free circle of a minimum diameter of 1.0m should be maintained around individual

establishing trees and shrubs in order to maximise growth for a period of 3 5 years from planting.
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6.5
REINSTATEMENT/RENOVATION
6.5.1 INTRODUCTION
z Reinstatement or renovation involves repairing plots by establishing vegetation to the same
specification as the vegetation that previously existed. Reinstatement is carried out to grassland and
planting plots where failures occur either due to damage (for example from vehicles) or poor
establishment.
z Reinstatement is particularly important in grassland elements. Full cover of grassland will help to
prevent the establishment of scrub species.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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6.5.2 TECHNIQUES OF REINSTATEMENT

z At the appropriate time (normally in Spring or early Autumn), grassland reinstatement areas should
be levelled, cultivated and reseeded or turfed.
z Refer to handover documents with specifications where they are available. Reference should also
be made to the Good Roads Guide and the Wildflower Handbook in DMRB, Vol 10, Section 3 for
establishment techniques.
z Where bulbs fail to colonise, a programme of replanting should take place in October.
z Newly sown grassland that is vulnerable to pedestrians or vehicles should be protected and
excluded from the cutting programme until the grass has established.
z Reinstatement of planting plots should normally be carried out to the original design and
specification as per the planting plan and contract. However the process of reinstatement can
provide opportunities to change the composition or design of the plot in order to allow the plot to
establish in the long-term or where there are problems with the original works.
6.5.3 NOTES
z Where damage to grassland (and woody planting plots) is caused by the installation of underground
services or by road traffic accidents, the reinstatement works should aim to reinstate to previous
condition.
z Before embarking on a reinstatement scheme, consider the reasons for failure. It may be that there
is some physical or design reason that is hindering establishment. A change to the ground
conditions or species may be required. Equally, a change to another surface treatment may be
appropriate or more permanent protection required, for example where vehicles overrun kerbs. Seed
mixes need to be chosen carefully. Off the shelf products may not be suitable especially where
local integration is important.
Poor grass area, with water-logging and grass death. Determine the cause of
compaction, consider improved drainage, if overrun by vehicles consider deterrent
measures such as bollards or provide grass-crete as hard standing if this is a regular
problem
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6.6
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
ENRICHMENT
6.6.1 INTRODUCTION
z Enrichment is secondary planting or regeneration, usually after establishment and often after
thinning, to improve species diversity, screening, visual amenity, nature conservation etc.
6.6.2 WOODY PLANTS

z Plots can be underplanted, either from pot grown or as bare root stock, to help form a shrub or lower
tree layer for ecological benefits and or screening reasons. Enrichment planting on the edges of
plots with appropriately chosen species can be carried out to increase visual amenity through colour,
form and variations in the shape of plot edges. For planting design information refer to the Good
Roads Guide in DMRB, Volume 10, Sections 1 and 2.
Planting wildflower plugs to enrich open grassland, having cut and raked the area
beforehand and growth retardant applied to cut areas prior to planting
6.6.4 BULB PLANTING
z Bulb planting can be used:
To enrich existing grassland or woodland for biodiversity reasons.

To provide enhanced visual appeal as gateway features.
z For spring flowering bulbs planting should be in autumn.
Underplanting of tree only plot with shrubs some evergreen to improve screening at
lower level. Note unless heavy thinning takes place these plants will not have enough
light to survive
6.6.3 PLUG PLANTING
z Enrichment of wildflower areas can be achieved by the planting of wildflowers grown in plugs and
larger containers. Plugs consist of young, small plants contained in a growing medium that can be
planted directly into a sward.
z This is a useful technique where there is established grass cover, which requires enrichment with
specific species in deliberate locations without disturbing the existing plants. Weed control may be
needed around plug plants to help establishment.
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6.6.5 SLOT SEEDING
z Slot seeding involves the placing of woody vegetation seeds directly into the ground in a small
trench or where a flap of turf is opened to allow the seed to slot.
z Trees grown from seed can, in some circumstances, greatly outperform transplants as their root
system can develop its depth and spread to match precisely the site conditions, balancing the top
growth. This technique is particularly appropriate where site topography makes normal tree planting
techniques difficult.
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6.6.9 TURF TRANSLOCATION

z Grassland areas can be enriched by translocating existing species rich grass from a donor site to
the new receiver site. The donor grass should be cut into suitable sized turfs with adequate soil and
transferred to a prepared receiver site, which has been stripped of the existing grass.
The work should be carried out in the autumn or winter. Storage and stacking should be
kept to a minimum and the turfs kept free from wear until established.
z Unlike litter/seed described below, slot seeding allows the positioning of plants in deliberate places
to achieve a desired effect. However, the results are not predictable, it is only suitable for a small
number of species and weed control can be difficult.
6.6.6 LEAF LITTER/SEED

Heather translocation
using turves
z Collection of leaf litter from beneath existing plant and grassland plots and spreading on bare earth
is an effective way of enriching plots where a local or a specific vegetation type is to be established.
The leaf litter contains a large number of viable seeds, which will germinate upon exposure to the
right environmental conditions.
z Consultation with the appropriate owner/authority from the donor site should be undertaken and
agreement and consents given to the seed collection. Expert advice should be sought in creating the
correct ground conditions in the receiver site.
6.6.7 TOPSOIL STRIPPING

z Stripping of topsoil in grassland areas serves to reduce the fertility of the ground and provide the low
fertility conditions required for wildflower establishment. This technique can only be considered as
enrichment when in association with seeding.
z Topsoil stripping is best carried out at the initial implementation phase of a planting scheme where
machinery is available to allow it to be carried out on a large scale with minimal disturbance to
surrounding areas.
6.6.10 GROUND MODELLING

z Changes in the profile of the ground allow differing microhabitats to form, which in turn allow
different plants to colonise. The formation of crevices and ledges where soil develops on rock and
scree allows the growth of plants to enrich the plot.
6.6.11 CUTTING BACK
z It can be used as an enrichment technique on a small scale where a change in the landscape
element is required and where disturbance is contained or can be accommodated.
6.6.8 NATURAL REGENERATION
z Where plants have not been managed and have become poorly formed or leggy in appearance with
a loss of vigour, simply cutting back the vegetation will enrich the plot allowing new young growth
with strong colour to form. This is particularly effective in heathland where many of the other
enrichment techniques may not be appropriate.
z Natural regeneration is a valuable enrichment technique that should be encouraged.

z Selected individual trees should be identified as a seed source and the ground around the tree
disturbed and scarified to allow seeds to fall into bare ground for potential germination. Protection of
the area from rabbits and trampling will often be necessary.
z Selective felling and extraction of surrounding trees may be necessary to allow light for adequate
germination and growth.
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6/14
6.6.12 NOTES
z Enrichment will require maintenance to ensure vegetation establishment. For woody vegetation this
should concentrate on weed control and protection from rabbits. Grassland enrichment will require
protection from trampling, control of invasive weed species and watering where necessary. After
establishment, all enrichment planting should be included in the annual maintenance programmes.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Gap in canopy is needed to

allow enough light to reach
under planting
z Trees grown from litter/seed do not provide the option of fine control over density, layout and the
final composition of the species mix. The technique is best suited to creating woodland from new,
but even then, some thinning, selection and beating-up may be necessary to produce the desired
densities.
z Enrichment into established woodland will need to consider light requirement through the canopy.
Consider using shade tolerant species for under planting or the need to open up the existing canopy
beforehand by thinning as below.
Enrichment under planting of shrubs

and herbaceous plants
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6.7
REGENERATION CONTROL
6.7.1 INTRODUCTION
z Regeneration control involves the control of vegetation that regenerates from nearby existing plants
into a landscape plot where it is undesirable.
z Regeneration control is carried out when the regenerating plants alter the landscape function of a
plot. This is of particular relevance to grassland where, if regeneration is not actively managed, the
grass will revert to scrub. It can also happen with invasive species in areas of rock and scree, in
woodland plots and in areas of bulbs.
6.7.2 GRASS CUTTING

z Grass cutting (refer to Section 6.2) will remove the vegetative growth of regenerating undesirable
species. This may be sufficient as a control measure where regular high frequency cutting is carried
out. The invading species is not allowed to grow and should eventually die off.
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6.7.3 HAND PULLING

z Invasive species are most effectively treated as seedlings when they can be hand pulled. This is
labour intensive and is only practical for small areas or where existing vegetation is of a sensitive
nature and other methods of control could be detrimental. When hand pulling, it is essential to
remove all the active root of the plant.
6.7.4 REMOVAL AND STUMP TREATMENT

z This is applicable to established scrub and to control plants that are acting as donor plants for
regeneration. The plant can be cut down to between 50 and 100mm above ground level, for stumps
with sufficient diameter, the stump and bark can be furrowed and a herbicide applied. An approved
dye should be used to indicate which stumps have been treated.
6.7.5 REMOVAL AND TREATMENT OF REGROWTH

z This technique is appropriate for treating established scrub and large areas of regenerating plants.
Cut the plants down to 50 mm above ground level and allow the plants to regrow. When young
regrowth forms, apply a translocated herbicide during active regrowth in the first year after initial
cutting.
6.7.6 REMOVAL ONLY

z Where encroachment of plants onto the highway or structures is the primary reason for regeneration
control, plants can be treated with herbicide to avoid regrowth.
6.7.7 GRUBBING OUT PLANTS

z The removal of the whole plant, including the roots, by digging out the vegetative and root growth is
an effective method of controlling scrub species such as bramble, which spreads by underground
means and is difficult to control.
6.7.8 REMOVING BULBS

z Where bulbs spread into unsuitable areas, e.g., visibility splays or areas where they are deemed
unsuitable for either visual, maintenance or safety reasons, they should be contained and removed
or prevented from spreading. Digging out and/or spot treatment should be carried out as an annual
operation in the growing season.
Flailing off gorse and bramble regeneration as part of a 5 year grassland

management rolling programme
NOVEMBER 2004
6/16
6.7.9 HERBICIDE TREATMENT
z Where the regenerating invasive species are at a young stage, a translocated herbicide can be
6.7.11 CONTROL OF SEED SOURCE

z To limit the amount of regeneration in adjacent grassland of hawthorn, ash and cherry for example,
consider removing prolific seed source trees from the edges of woodlands when thinning.
applied to the vegetative growth, causing the plants to die back. This is effective where there is a
large area of invading species that is not possible to hand-pull or spot treat within sensitive plots.
Refer to Section 6.3 for further information on chemical treatments. This technique is only used in
very difficult situations where it is acceptable to lose diversity.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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6.7.10 RING BARKING

z This involves the removal of a ring of bark from the trunk of a tree in order to kill the tree. This is
appropriate in woodland situations where the dying trees will not prove a visual distraction or Health
and Safety risk. As the trees die they can be removed or allowed to decompose as a dead wood
habitat.
Bramble regeneration has invaded a grassland plot; cutting the

swathe will contain the bramble from encroaching onto the highway,
but will not prevent the bramble from taking over the rest of the
grassland
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
woodland
Odd groups of volunteer scrub

will, if left to grow, coalesce to
obliterate grassland and blur
landscape design. Consider
periodically removing
NOVEMBER 2004
6/18
6.7.11 NOTES
z The most cost effective control of regeneration will often involve a combination of techniques, e.g.,
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Scrub on highway embankment providing the function of integration and requiring

regeneration control.
applying chemical control to cause die back of vegetative growth followed by grubbing out roots to
control the source of the regeneration donor if required, eg, in urban areas. Another example would
be cutting down volunteer growth but then making sure either chemical stump treatment is used
soon after, or regrowth is chemically treated the following spring.
z Scrub can spread rapidly, especially after it has been cut. It should be monitored at least every 2
years for regrowth.
z Consider removing all arisings from gorse, broom and bramble cutting off site or, if not possible,
finely chopping and spreading on site to a maximum depth of 70 mm.
An Abie controlling regeneration , the opposite cutting has been similarly treated
z Bramble and gorse can contain protected species such as snakes and reptiles, dormice or badgers.
On-site checks should be made before work begins. See Reptile Advice Note in DMRB, Vol. 10,
Section 4.
z All work to control regeneration should take place out of the bird-nesting season.
Picture above shows rock face which has had regenerating tree and shrubs
removed and stump treated, but ivy and other climbers are re-colonising. Work
was difficult and labour intensive so its not cost effective to repeat this too often.
So work should always be followed by chemical regrowth treatment
NOVEMBER 2004
6/19
6.8
TREATMENT OF ARISINGS
6.8.1 INTRODUCTION
z Treatment of arisings is the method used to deal with vegetation removed from plants in the process
of carrying out landscape management works.
6.8.2 IN SITU
z Where visually acceptable, grass cuttings in amenity grassland, grassland with bulbs and open
grasslands should be left in situ. The cuttings should be finely chopped and dispersed evenly over
the sward.
z In some areas of high visual amenity it may be appropriate to cut and remove the arisings to a
disposal site off the highway estate, however with frequent cutting this should be unnecessary.
z Grass cutting on banks and in ditches should be dispersed evenly to avoid blocking drains or
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.8.4 CHIPPING
z Chipping involves the use of a specialist wood chipper machine, to reduce tree waste and softer
prunings, such as gorse and bramble, to small chips for distribution on site or removal for
composting. The chipper should produce chippings in the size range 0 75mm.The chipper
machine should be placed to blow chippings away from the carriageway.
z Safe and adequate access to the plot is required for the machine to stand. The chipped arisings can
either be left as piles on site or spread evenly across a plot or chipped directly into a lorry for
removal off site.
z Where the chippings are to be retained on site, the chippings should be returned to within the
boundary of the area in which the retained plants are left. As a guideline, chippings can be spread
over up to 20% of a plot to a maximum depth of 50 mm or in piles to a maximum height of 600mm
to minimise wind blow.
z The wood chip piles will be noticeable at first, but will rot down over time.
ditches.
z Vegetation removed from in and around waterbodies should be raked up.

z Where vegetation is being cleared from waterbodies with wildlife interest, the vegetation should be
temporarily placed on the bank or at the side of the waterbody to allow any aquatic fauna to return to
the waterbody.
z Refer to Waste Management Licensing Regulations 1994 (see Section 4.2).

6.8.3 REMOVAL
z All grass cuttings from species rich grassland should be raked and removed from site to avoid
smothering the sward and nutrient enrichment where its not possible to leave elsewhere on site. The
cuttings should be taken to a licensed waste disposal site. Refer to the Wildflower Handbook,
DMRB, Volume 10, Section 3. In some instances the cuttings can be spread onto tree and shrub
plots, which is more cost effective and sustainable. Refer to Sections 6.2.4 and 5.4.
z Where bulbs are present, their foliage should be allowed to die back six weeks after flowering and
the arisings raked up and removed off site as above. Refer to Section 6.2.
z All grass cuttings from heath, moorland, rock and scree should be removed from site.
z Where noxious weeds are to be controlled by hand pulling or cutting, the arisings should be
disposed at a licensed disposal site. Where the weeds have been chemically treated and die back is
slow, the weeds can be removed by hand or by cutting and raking up then disposed of as above.
Certain weeds, such as Japanese knotweed, have specific requirements for their disposal. This
includes removal in a secure container to a licensed tip.
NOVEMBER 2004
Chipper used to treat arisings in a thinned woodland
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.8.5 WINDROWING
6.8.6 NOTES
z Windrowing involves the stacking of woody arisings in piled rows within woody plots. It can be used
for felled timber, coppice arisings and thinnings. The windrows should be constructed within the
boundary of the area in which the work has taken place. They should be placed towards the back of
the area and stacked to a height and width of between 0.5 and 1.5m.
z The cutting of long grass areas will produce a thatch of cut grass over the cut area. This may be
unacceptable visually and ecologically. Equally, thatch can blow onto the road and pose a fire hazard
in certain situations. The landscape manager may instruct collection of the cuttings and disposal off
site.
z Where patches of bramble are present in open grassland, and are controlled by cutting, these will
Corded wood using live trees
to prevent it rolling down cutting
regrow and respread quickly if the regrowth is not chemically treated. Simply cutting bramble is not a
very cost effective method of control unless the bramble is required to be ever-present, then periodic
cutting will create different age structures.
z Access to slopes may influence collection methods and the decision on the treatment of arisings.
.
z Wood, chippings and grass cuttings can be used to create habitat piles when placed back from the
road.
Windrowing at right angles to

the slope
z Off site disposal of timber and woody arisings will be required where the techniques of chipping and
windrowing are not appropriate, desirable or safe.
z Thinnings running at right angles to the slope have used cut stumps to anchor the windrows and
prevent them from rolling down onto the carriageway.
NOVEMBER 2004
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6.9
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
THINNING
z Five to seven years after the first thin, the plot should be assessed for a second stage of nurse
species thinning. This again should remove 10 20% of species between years 10 15 after
planting.
6.9.1 INTRODUCTION
z Thinning is carried out in order to produce a sustainable woodland type in terms of species
composition and structural diversity as well as tree stability.
z Depending on growth rates, subsequent thinning may be required at 5-year intervals until the
desired state is achieved.
z It may be desirable in some situations to retain some examples of the nurse species to provide
6.9.2 THINNING
greater variety in the woodland.
z The thinning process starts with the removal of nurse species if present. Nurse species are rapidly
growing trees/shrubs that are planted within woodland to form a microenvironment that allows the
slower growing climax trees to develop. Nurse species may include alder, birch and willow, and
some conifer, however, this depends on the location as in some cases these species may be
appropriate for climax species. Climax species are planted amongst the nurse species so that the
desired structure is obtained once the nurse species are removed.
Chippings spread on
site in low mounds to
reduce wind blow
z As the planting plot matures, the nurse species should be thinned to allow room for the climax
vegetation to grow.
Thinning of birch nurse

species close to the
carriageway. This should
have been carried out
earlier to allow room for
climax species. Note the
access requirements and
traffic management
needed whilst working in
a dense plot
Linear belt of trees and shrubs selectively thinned to pull back vegetation from the
carriageway, leaving well-formed trees. Chippings should be spread further back in
the plot, not on the grassland at the front where soil enrichment will occur
z The art of good thinning is being able to look ahead and decide which stems are wanted 20/30/40
years time and then working backwards from this. In some critical areas landscape managers may
wish to mark these climax trees for retention at all stages. Picture below shows road embankment
thinned to create high forest approximately 40% of stems were removed at second thin. The plot is
25 years old.
z Generally it is not desirable to look for tall straight trees on the side of road with knot free timber, so
forestry type approaches to management is not appropriate. Generally a more squat wide growing
form of tree is required as this is more stable by having a lower centre of gravity.
z The plot should first be assessed for thinning requirements at the thicket stage of planting; generally
5 years after planting. Depending on the growth-rate, a first initial selective thin of 30% 50% of
species should be carried out between years 7 10 after planting.
z If plots have been badly neglected to retrieve the situation first thinning may have to consider taking
as much as 70% of stems out. However, thinning must not lead to subsequent wind throw. Equally
plot functions of screening may need to be retained throughout.
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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z Frequency of thinning will depend on the desired density, species of trees and the function of the
woodland, and will need to be set on a site-by-site basis.
Plot thinned to give crown freedom to retained trees
Picture above shows Italian alder being removed from a plot as the alder was
orginally planted as a nurse species. Plot is 22 years old
z When considering the percentage thinning needed it may be critical to consider the direction of the
prevailing wind and stability of the tree stock. Opening the canopy up too much too late can lead to
wind-blow of the remainder.
Picture above shows thinning to relieve light for neighbouring property

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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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6.9.3 NOTES
z Thinnings can be left within plots to provide additional nature conservation interest as habitat piles.
z The timing of thinning operations should be carefully considered so that disturbance to wildlife is
minimised, e.g., outside the bird-nesting season.
z Over-thinning can cause irreparable harm and prejudice the long-term functions and viability of the
plot. The landscape manager should consider pre-marking trees for removal, or approving a sample
area, or marking final dominant trees.
z Letting too much light to ground level after thinning encourages nettles and bramble at the expense
of woodland herbaceous plants such as primroses and bluebells.
z When thinning, operatives should be thinking about which are to be the climax trees and work
around these. For sustainability, these will usually be trees in the middle of plots.
Before
After
Light thinning to retain landscape function of screening
z When thinning a woodland plot with the function of integration, changes to adjacent vegetation need
to be monitored and, where appropriate, the management of the on-site plot needs to be altered to
suit. Consider both short-term integration and longer-term development of the plots.
z Where screening is a primary function of a woodland plot, more frequent light thinning, or phased
thinning operations will be required to avoid temporary loss of the screen. When thinning trees in
screen woodland, managers should consider the retention of the shrub layer as an intermediate
level screen.
z In woodland plots, where the objective is visual amenity, thinning should favour those tree species
that will improve visual amenity and seasonal variation. The thinned spacing should be varied within
plots, so that glades are created, allowing light through to the herb layer and relieving the single
canopy appearance.
Removing Italian alder which are not required to achieve functional of integration with
adjacent deciduous woodland
NOVEMBER 2004
6/24
6.10 ARBORICULTURAL WORKS
6.10.1 INTRODUCTION
z Arboricultural works are operations carried out to establishing and established trees to ensure their
health, form and safety.
z Arboricultural works are applied to semimature and mature trees occurring in both the urban and
rural environment along roads, occurring individually, in-groups, in hedgerows and within planting
plots.
z An arboriculturalist will be required to advise on the arboricultural works required. The landscape
manager should be aware of the following techniques that can be applied to trees so that they know
when to call in an arboriculturalist.
6.10.2 ARBORICULTURAL WORKS

z In the TRMM, highway trees are defined as those trees growing within the highway boundary or
those within falling distance of the highway. TRMM identifies the minimum requirements for tree
inspections, at time of press, to be carried out at one year intervals for all highway trees with an
inspection by an arboriculturalist every five years.
z The highway authority has a duty of care under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
and Occupiers Liability Act to those using the highway. Statute law requires the highway authority to
take reasonable care of their trees.
z In England, the Network operator operating on behalf of the Highway Authority has right of access to
examine trees growing on private property that are within falling distance of the highway. The
Authority can require the owner of the land to fell or prune any tree that represents a danger or
causes obstruction under Section 154 of the Highways Act, 1980.
z Trees within the highway (on trunk roads and motorways) are exempt from requirements relating to
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Works to trees might include:

Pruning, to remove dead, dying, diseased or broken branches and snags and specific branch
removal.
Regulative pruning to remove branches that overhang the highway or footpath causing a danger
or nuisance to the public (refer to Section 6.14).
Removal of feathered side branches and epicormic growth from trunks to maintain a clear stem.
Pollarding - removal of all crown growth down to the main stem on a cyclical period
Crown lifting - removal of lower branches to provide a clearance of 2.5m above the footway and
5.2m above the carriageway.
Crown reduction/reshaping. To reduce the size and weight of potentially dangerous limbs or
prevent a tree obstructing or damaging buildings and overhead lines.
Crown thinning. Removal of a percentage of secondary and small live branch growth throughout
the crown of the tree. This will produce an even density of foliage around a spread and balanced
branch structure, to allow more light to pass through the canopy and to balance the growth of the
crown with the root system.
Restoring or restructuring previously lopped or pollarded trees.
Root pruning and installation of root barriers where roots are causing severe displacement to the
surface of footways or causing damage to properties.
Treatment of major bark wounds and cavities as soon as they are noted to avoid the risk of
disease.
These are mainly applicable to urban street trees and trees close to the carriageway. Detailed
tree works are rarely needed to plantation trees in rural areas where there is no obvious public
safety implication.
TPOs, Conservation Areas and felling licences.
Crown lifting
NOVEMBER 2004
Crown reduction: to reduce the overall size of

a tree without spoiling its shape
6/25
Before
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
After
6.10.3 ARBORICULTURAL INSPECTIONS

z An inspection system should provide a robust regime of tree management. This should include a
risk management plan, an inventory, a recording system, staff resources, a frequency of inspections
and level of inspections. Further detailed recommendations for such a system are given in
Appendix 6/1 (see page 6/48).
Crown thinning
z TRMM specifies tree inspections be carried out at one year intervals for all highway trees with an
inspection by an arboriculturalist every five years.
z Tree inspections are best staggered throughout the year on a continuous cycle to highlight certain
defects, such as honey fungus in the autumn, deadwood in the summer or bud burst in the spring.
A qualified arboriculturalist should carry out the inspection.
z The inspection should recommend any works that are considered necessary and advise on the
timing of the works and any subsequent inspection requirement. The Highway Authority should
inform private owners of the work and protection measures required to their trees.
z Records of all examinations and work carried out should be kept and stored in a database.
z Tree removal and replacement should be considered when their long term sustainability cannot be
maintained because:
trees require repeated crown reduction to control their overall size;
trees require severe root pruning which would undermine their stability;
a tree requires bracing to overcome structural defects;
a tree has wounds around much of the circumference of its trunk;
Mature trees outside

highway boundary but
within falling distance
and tree work on
highway side
tree roots have been severely damaged comprising their stability; and
trees have reached senility and begin to die back with a gradual increase in dead limbs. However
the retention of dead wood for invertebrates and holes for bats should be considered where
appropriate without causing a safety hazard;
trees are leaning, in danger of falling; and
trees are diseased, e.g., Dutch elm.
NOVEMBER 2004
6.10.3 NOTES
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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z All work should be carried out to BS 3998 (1989) Recommendations for Tree Work.
z Tree work should only be carried out by qualified personnel with a recognised arboricultural
qualification or who have been approved by the Arboricultural Association.
z Tree work should not be carried out in periods of extreme weather, except in an emergency
situation. Tree works are best carried out in the winter to avoid breeding birds and whilst the tree is
dormant, however the appropriate time for works for particular species should be checked with an
arboriculturalist.
z Traffic management on highly trafficked routes road space may only be available at night.
Service trench or ditch dug

close to tree removes
anchorage roots, causing die
back in tree or tree root
disease leading to possible
future instability. Consider
anchoring or removal of tree
z Good liaison and co-ordination between engineers and landscape managers, public utilities and
local authorities is a key factor in successful tree management. Consultation should take place well
in advance of any intended action to or within the vicinity of street trees. The public, especially local
residents, should also be informed of major tree works including pruning, removal and replacement.
z Crown lifting/thinning and reduction are techniques only to be considered where trees are growing
close to the road, properties or other structures
z Trees are more likely to die of damage to their root system than damage to the bark or canopy.
Hand working is preferable when working close to tree roots.
z The landscape manager should specify tree protection measures when construction works are
planned near to trees. These may include:
placing services below the roots of the tree, preferably in ducts;
erecting protective fencing around the tree and root system;
placing boards, in conjunction with gravel, over a geotextile membrane to protect roots from
heavy loads if working space is essential under the canopy;
wrapping the trunk with hessian or similar material to avoid damage to the bark;
lifting the canopy or pruning branches for clearance to operate plant;
ensuring oil, bitumen, cement, etc. are not stacked or discharged near to the tree or spread of
the tree roots;
providing interception to ensure that damaging materials such as concrete washings or oil cannot
run towards the tree or contaminate the ground.
Refer to British Standard 5837: 1991 - Guide for Trees in Relation to Construction
Street trees such as these will be severely constrained by space for works and
time of the day when works may be undertaken
NOVEMBER 2004
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Tree roots and services
NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
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Tree protection during construction
6/28
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6.11 REPLANTING/RESTOCKING
6.11.2 REPLANTING
z Managers should consider enhancement opportunities for the various Environmental Functions.
6.11.1 INTRODUCTION
z Landscapes are constantly evolving and therefore need to be monitored on an ongoing basis in
order to identify maintenance requirements and opportunities for enhancement.
z As the landscape develops, managers should identify planting that needs to be replaced and the
species most suitable for specific locations.
z There may be other reasons why additional planting is required, including reinstatement following
planned disturbance, such as highway improvements, or unplanned events, such as road traffic
accidents. Other reasons include changes outside the highway boundary, which may mean plot
functions need to change. For example, a woodlands original function of integration may need to
change to visual screening because of recent housing development, and so require enrichment.
These may include diversification of the existing planting for increased nature conservation interest
or changes to landscape structure for improved visual amenity (refer to Advice Note HA 63/92,
Improving Existing Roads, Improving Techniques).
z Detailed information regarding planting techniques for new planting and subsequent maintenance is
included in Series 3000, Landscape and Ecology, Volume 1 of the Specification for Highway Works,
Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works and the associated Guidance Notes.
6.11.3 NOTES
z The character of the existing landscape should be considered when identifying opportunities for
additional planting. Refer to any Landscape Management Plan held by road operators for records on
the existing landscape.
z Gapping-up hedgerows where plants have failed is an important maintenance operation, as

hedgerows act as wildlife corridors, and significant gaps discourage wildlife movement. Where
possible, managers should seek to reconnect isolated landscape elements so that the network
available to wildlife is increased.
Motorway widening has cut further

into an existing embankment with
removal of the front edge of planting,
which has been replanted. The
different age of the planting will need
to be accounted for in the
management plan
z Replacement plants will require further establishment maintenance.
NOVEMBER 2004
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6.12 COPPICING
6.12.1 INTRODUCTION
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z The overall function of the plot should guide the consideration of the timing, area and percentage of
the plot to be coppiced. In a large woodland plot, the area for coppice may be split into coupes
depending on access requirements, and the need to retain screening.
z Coppicing involves the periodic cutting back of particular tree and shrub species to ground level,
causing them to send up multiple stems from the cut stools. These stools can live for hundreds of
years, the regular removal of stems effectively lengthening the life of the stool.
z On the Highway, coppicing is carried out for several reasons:

to enhance the wildlife value of woody plots by providing a gradually changing mosaic of
structurally diverse vegetation;
to provide screening at low and intermediate levels; and
to create visual amenity with the dynamic changes in colour of young vegetation and the multi
stemmed form of the coppice, especially when carried out in blocks of planting of the same
species.
z Space may be limited and only large enough for smaller coppiced plants. During all coppice works
the ground should be dry to avoid damage to the soil structure and ground flora. Coppicing is also a
useful technique for controlling scrub and for reinstatement of clearances.
z Coppicing is commonly applied to the following species on the highway; willow, hazel, birch, ash,
dogwood, sweet chestnut, field maple, hawthorn and blackthorn.
z Coppice management of mature or derelict coppice requires the selection of old stools to be cut
back. The stools chosen for coppicing should be healthy plants where the structure of the coppice
would benefit visually and ecologically from opening up of the canopy. If the plot is an established
plantation, aged over 10 years, coppicing of plants can begin straight away. Young plants should be
allowed to grow for 6 9 years before beginning their coppice cycle.
Boundary planting coppiced with

occasional standards left to retain
screening function
Screen on embankment. Phased

coppice will require a 5-year rotation
to retain a dense screen
z The length of coppice rotation will depend on the function of the plot and the species. A 7 15 year
rotation is recommended for wildlife. Woodland herbs tend to do best in the second and third spring
after coppicing. After ten years, coppice is at its best for nesting birds, while after 20 years, its value
as a nesting habitat begins to decline as the closed canopy shades out shrubs beneath.
z A 5 10-year coppice rotation is usual for visual amenity and screening.

z November to February is the best time to coppice. There is less sap in the stems during this period
and the wood is easier to cut. The undergrowth will have died back, so visibility is improved, and
disturbance to wildlife is minimised.
z The coppice work should cut the stems to between 50 100mm above ground level if the plant is
being coppiced for the first time. If coppiced previously, the Contractor should cut back to just above
the previous point of coppicing, defined by a branch collar. The final wound surface should be
smooth and angled to allow water to run off.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/30
z Coppice arisings may be disposed of by windrowing or chipping on or off site (refer to Section 6.8).
z More complex forms of coppicing include mixed species coppicing, where different species in the
same stand are managed on different rotations, and selection coppicing, where only a proportion of
shoots are cut at any one time from each stool. These techniques may be useful in areas of high
visual amenity.
z In a coppice with standards plot, individual trees are allowed to grow to standards within the coppice
plot. This is applicable to plots of shrubs with intermittent trees and some woodland where standard
trees are selected to remain in a coppice plot.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.12.2 NOTES
z The layout of coppice plots need to be arranged so that, when plots are cut at the end of their
growth cycle, the timber can be removed easily and without damage to other plots where young
shoots may be growing up.
z The coppice rotation should be planned so that wildlife can easily move from one plot to another
nearby plot with similar habitat conditions.
z Hazel coppice is favoured by dormice. Therefore an assessment should be made prior to coppice
work starting.
Hazel coppice stool left has been cut

to rejuvenate stool to enhance
dormice habitate. It is critical to
ensure enough light reaches the
stool. Consider opening up the
canopy overhead
Note in both instances height of resultant stumps are high enough for lots of side buds to
develop. Stools cut too close to ground will develop less side shoots
Same stool in following summer with

1.5-2ms regrowth
Willow stool has been cut to introduce additional layers into tree only plot
NOVEMBER 2004
6/31
6.13 CLEANING
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Areas that are difficult to reach, such as waterbodies and steep slopes, will require health and safety
risk assessments before operations commence.
6.13.1 INTRODUCTION
z Within the first ten years after establishment it is likely that work will be needed to clean out the plot
of any plant establishment materials (guards, stakes, etc.) and any unwanted vegetation that has
become established.
z Operations should include the collection of accumulated litter and the disposal of larger items that
have been fly-tipped, on an annual basis or several times a year as required. In addition to the
removal of plants, pruning and cutting back may be needed within planting areas themselves.
z Cleaning operations are an essential component of landscape management as they can improve
plant growth and lead to an increase in the perceived quality of landscape.
z Cleaning is defined here as both cleaning of litter, rubbish and removal of other vegetation which
may hinder the growth of the target vegetation. This latter point is usually understood by the forestry
term cleaning.
z In England litter clearance on motorways is the responsibility of the Highways Agency. On trunk
roads it is the responsibility of the local authority (refer to Table 8.1 for the responsibilities of the
other administrations).
z If litter is not removed before grass cutting operations, it is shredded and spread over a wider area,
reducing the visual appearance of the landscape. Larger items of rubbish can damage grass cutting
equipment, and should be removed before starting this operation.
z Special arrangements may need to be made for the removal of fly-tipped rubbish. In areas where
fly-tipping is a major problem, it may be necessary to introduce vehicle control measures at strategic
locations.
Above area next to lay-by has been cleaned of bramble resulting in exposure of litter
z Gates, fencing, dragons teeth and rocks or bollards can be used to prevent access to secluded
tipping areas. Trespass onto open ground can be addressed using boundary ditches. Alterations to
planting that allow surveillance of tipping areas can also be considered, e.g., lowering planting
alongside lay-bys.
z Tree shelters, stakes and mulch mats should be removed 3 7 years after installation. Rabbit
fencing and vegetation alongside can trap significant amounts of litter. Once planting is established,
fencing is likely to be redundant and removal should be considered.
z Control unwelcome woody weeds such as bramble, rhododendron or aggressive climbers such as
clematis. Such weeds are not likely to be suppressed by the growing tree canopy.
z Remove dead shrubs and trees to remove the threat of rot and disease. However, dead wood
provides valuable habitat for invertebrates, and in rural areas dead wood should be left as a matter
of course unless there is a safety or disease implication.
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.13.2 NOTES
z The risks involved with carrying out litter collection need to be assessed. As well as the obvious
dangers associated with working next to the highway there are potential health risks associated with
waste materials encountered.
z Waste must be removed to a licensed waste facility.

z Cleaning operations can often be co-ordinated with the first thinning operation.
z It may be desirable to have some dead wood in a woodland plot, and the degree of cleaning and
removal of vegetation should be assessed on an individual plot basis.
This plot has been cleaned, leaving healthy, well-formed trees and a few scattered
shrubs. The area has been prepared for replanting due to gaps being created due to
lack of cleaning in the past
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.14 PRUNING
6.14.1 INTRODUCTION
z Pruning will be carried out as the last resort as usually it means that the vegetation is not capable of
surviving in its three dimensional space without some form of cutting. It equally means that if pruning
is carried out then a commitment to future pruning will be needed. It is worth considering total
removing of the plant as a more sustainable option if this is possible. Often vegetation that remains
or is planted within a widening scheme will have to be regularly pruned and this will be implicit in the
design.
z Pruning is mainly applied to plants on the edge of the highway, where they are obstructing signs,
There is an Advanced
Directional Sign behind these
trees. Prune vegetation back
from sign. Be aware of future
growth overhanging carriage
way
encroaching into visibility splays and onto the highway, overgrowing the plot and altering the function
of the plot (refer to Section 6.10). Forms of pruning include;
Formative pruning of trees and shrubs to encourage growth patterns and regenerate plants that
have become overgrown and leggy.
Removing dead heads from ornamental plants to achieve a better floral display.
Removal of diseased and damaged branches, or dangerous limbs on trees.
Coppicing to gain effects of coloured stems and or rejuvenation.
Regeneration of tender plants damaged by frost, e.g., fuchsia and senecio species.
Some shrubs only require pruning to trim back the flowering heads, but not cut into the old wood,
immediately after flowering.
z Pruning of ornamental planting should involve removal of all growth that extends over the footway or
carriageway to a point not more than 150mm behind the hard edge. All shrubs that are encroaching
on, or obscuring visibility of adjacent signs, structures, electrical equipment, gates or visibility splays
should be pruned to remove the obstruction. Suckers from rootstocks should be removed and
species encroaching onto other species, altering the design of the plot, should also be pruned.
z Generally the best time to prune plants is in November to March, to remove dead growth that has
occurred over the winter months .A pruning schedule should be drawn up for pruning of amenity and
ornamental planting to ensure the correct procedures are undertaken at the right time of year to
achieve the desired foliage results.
z Climbers and trailers require minimal pruning apart from; trimming back growth away from the wall
or fence; cutting vigorous species, which become tangled and full of dead wood, down to the base to
rejuvenate them. This could be carried out on a rotational basis to every second or third plant.
z Arisings from pruning can either be chipped or spread on site or removed off site (refer to Section
6.8).
z Pruning cuts should be made in accordance with the guidance in BS 7370 Part 4.
Tree pruned back from

sign. Will need doing
every year
NOVEMBER 2004
Nearest tree removed.

will give clearance for
some years
6/34
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.14.2 NOTES
z When plants are pruned to limit shape and size, the growing habit of the plant should be retained.
z Summer pruning can serve to reduce the vigour of the summer regrowth, whereas winter pruning
usually makes spring regrowth more vigorous.
z Where plants continually require pruning to prevent encroachment onto the highway, consider
Gravel margin to allow for

eventual expansion of low
planting in pedestrian subway
removal of the plant and or replacement with a more suitable non-vigorous species.
Cutting back shrubs promotes bushiness
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.15 FELLING
6.15.1 INTRODUCTION
z Felling will be carried out when the tree has outlived its function and cannot be prolonged by some
other form of management, coppicing, pollarding, and thinning.
z Felling trees on the sides of roads is a difficult business and invariably mean some form of traffic
management is required, either static lane closures or mobile closures. As roadside trees mature
more and more of this will be necessary and if traffic flows increase then it will be more difficult in
the future to carry out this type of operation. Therefore thought should be given to felling trees while
they are smaller and earlier to avoid problems for successors.
z Felling is carried out as part of highway landscape management for the following reasons:
public safety from dangerous trees, e.g., senile or damaged trees, that could cause harm to the
public need to be removed;
diseased trees that could infect other trees or are at risk of structural damage may require
removal;
as a result of planned works on the highway, trees that are in the construction area may need to
be removed;
where high forest occurs within the soft estate, a planned program of forestry management will
be required;
diversification of a woodland plot, to open up the canopy and make space for climax and new
trees, create glades etc.; and
to remove problem or unwanted species in a woody plot.
Beech stump after removal of dangerous tree next to layby

using sectional felling to minimise carriageway closure
z As the trees grow, they may become unstable. To prevent them falling, they should be felled at a
prescribed time/height. High forest trees are particularly prone to instability as they are planted at
uniform spacing, designed to maximise stem production and to minimise branch growth. Felling of
high forest trees should be carried out in blocks on a rotational basis. The design and phasing of the
felling blocks should retain screening where it is a function of the plot.
z Clear felling consists of felling trees as a whole normally to within 100mm of ground level. Larger
stems/boles may be left for natural decay.
z Sectional felling/dismantling consists of removing the tree in sections that are safe to be lowered
using ropes. This may be the favoured technique to keep traffic management to a minimum.
z Timber should be retained on-site and used to create wildlife habitat where possible. Otherwise it
should be disposed off site (refer to Section 6.8).
Stump treatment can include one of the following:

leave stump in situ, cut smoothly as close to the ground as possible (in urban areas to avoid trip
hazard), treat with herbicide by furrowing (drilling into the cambium zone of the cut stump). Refer
to Section 6.3;
stump grinding with a mechanical grinding machine to a depth of 300mm. Fill the void with topsoil
to match existing ground levels; or
stump grubbing to remove the complete stump and roots by means of excavation and or
winching and backfilling with topsoil to make up levels.
z Where possible leave as much of the trunk/stem, as safety allows, for habitat. Stump grinding and
grubbing on the highway estate are usually restricted to situations where amenity values are high, in
urban areas or where stumps will present a hazard.
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.15.2 NOTES
z Tree felling poses many dangers for the operators and the general public. All work should be carried
out in accordance with BS 3998 (1989) Recommendations for Tree Work.
z Ground reinstatement after stump works should be carried out in the same day, leaving the site in a
safe condition, free from trip hazards.
z Access requirements are a major factor in the planning of felling works.
Opposite, above and below. Sectional felling has been needed here due to the closeness of
the road and involves tree climbing and lowering cut branches by rope. Operatives will need
harnesses and special training to undertake this type of specialised felling. Below sectional
felling carried out from platform
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.16 HEDGE MANAGEMENT

6.16.1 INTRODUCTION
Hedge laid in a Midland style.

The hedge is stacked vertically
down the centre line and bound
along the top with binding or
heathering
z Hedge management includes, hedge cutting, hedge laying and replanting.

6.16.2 HEDGE LAYING
z Hedge laying is a traditional technique used to rejuvenate an ageing hedgerow and improve its
structural strength so that it forms a stock-proof barrier. Laying is carried out during the winter
months when hedgerow plants are dormant and the fabric of the hedge is clearly visible.
Hedge laying involves partially cutting the upright stems (known as pleachers) and
laying them at an angle on top of each other. Stakes are then driven down through the
pleachers (at set distances) along the line of the hedge in order to provide additional
strength. Many styles use a flexible whip material (often hazel) that is woven around
the top of the stakes as binders.
z Where possible, styles that are common to a particular area should be used in order to reinforce
local landscape character. These include the following commonly found styles:
Midland
Dorset
Worcestershire
Cheshire
Somerset
Derbyshire
Staffordshire
Welsh styles.
z Before work starts, the direction in which the hedge would be best laid should be considered. On
sloping ground, the pleachers will be under less strain if laid in an uphill direction and will therefore
be more likely to sustain new growth the following spring.
As a first step, an assessment should be carried out to determine which stems or pleachers
are to be retained and which are to be completely removed. Once this has been done the
laying process can be started from one end of the hedgerow. If it is not possible to start at the
end of a hedge it may be necessary to cut a number of stems to provide some working room
Hedge laying in central reserve can minimise the need for trimming for a few years
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.16.3 HEDGE CUTTING

z Native hedges can be trimmed in the winter using a tractor-mounted flail. If appropriate, hedges
should be cut on a 3-year rotation in order to favour wildlife such as the brown hairstreak butterfly,
which lays its eggs on young blackthorn. Ornamental hedges (especially those made up of largeleaved species) may need to be trimmed using hedge trimmers or secateurs.
Recently cut hedge. Note

bollard obstructing access
for maintenance
Hedgerow being
flailed. Note the
need for mobile
lane closures
z The road Operator requires an integrated approach to hedgerow management. Guidelines on hedge
cutting are contained within TRMM.
6.16.4 REPLANTING
z Periodic gapping up may be needed to strengthen older hedgerows and hedgerows where plants
have not established (refer to Section 6.11).
6.16.5 NOTES
z Hedge laying is a specialist technique, which will require the skills of an experienced hedge layer.
z Access for hedgerow cutting requires traffic management coordination and in some cases
agreements with landowners.
Example of bad flailing as a result of the flailing being left too long and then using too
small a cutter for the size of the stems. This rips the stems and can lead to disease
taking hold. This should be avoided at all costs
NOVEMBER 2004
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6.17 MANAGEMENT OF WATERBODIES
6.17.1 INTRODUCTION
z The number of waterbodies created within the highway network is increasing. This is driven by
increasing controls in relation to drainage discharge from the highway, the policy of promoting a
sustainable approach to drainage and the desire to encourage habitat creation.
z Waterbodies may be used as attenuation ponds, soakaways, pollution control devices, ecological
mitigation or a combination of the above. The design function of the waterbody will determine the
management objectives and therefore the type and level of maintenance required.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z Waterbodies constructed for water balancing and treatment must be recognised as such and treated
differently to those whose main function might be for ecological purposes. The maintenance of the
waterbody for these purposes takes priority over any other, and as such management is likely to be
more intense and may not consider ecological enhancement. However, the presence of protected
species must always be considered to ensure compliance with wildlife legislation.
z Balancing ponds hold storm water temporarily until it can be discharged into nearby watercourses at
permitted discharge rates set by the relevant environmental agency. Soakaways may be used to
perform the same function where ground conditions are suitable.
z Pollution control features include Pollution Containment Ditches (PCDs). These are designed to
prevent accidental chemical spills reaching watercourses. Intervention is required to ensure that the
ditch is closed before the chemical reaches the receiving watercourse, i.e., gates or valves need to
be shut as soon as possible after an accident. These devices need to remain closed after the main
spill as there is an equal pollution risk from the clean-up operations.
z There is increased interest in using constructed wetlands to treat highway run-off before it enters
natural watercourses. Using a combination of surface and sub-surface flow cells it is possible to
remove significant levels of pollutants such as suspended solids. This is achieved through physical,
chemical and biological processes including settlement, filtration, precipitation and microbial activity.
The latest recommendations are included in DMRB, Volume 4, Section 2, Part 1.
Ditch maintenance can

be very disruptive to
vegetation. Spoil
deposition is a
problem
NOVEMBER 2004
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VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.17.2 CONTROL OF WATER LEVELS & QUALITY

z In order to manage a waterbody appropriately, it is necessary to control water levels, vegetation, silt
and debris. These aspects are closely interrelated. Landscape Managers are primarily concerned
with the management of waterbodies for nature conservation. However the prime functions are
normally engineering related and there will need to be close liaison between both disciplines to
provide a combined and integrated approach to management.
Removal of silt by weed

bucket from roadside ditch to
increase available water vole
habitat
z The objectives for ecological mitigation in wetlands should be identified from the outset so that they
can be adequately considered during both initial design and subsequent management. Water quality
will be an important issue for these wetlands and it may not therefore be possible to combine
pollution control and nature conservation functions.
Maintenance can maintain

watercourse function whilst
providing wildlife habitat
6.17.5 NOTES
z Trees should not be allowed to shade a pond as this reduces available light for aquatic plants and
the health of the pond suffers as a result. If possible, the southern edge of a waterbody should be
left unplanted. However, a planted southern edge helps to reduce vigorous aquatic species and
adds another habitat element, particularly valuable for certain species, e.g., Daubentons bats.
z Managers must be aware of the safety risks involved in maintaining waterbodies. Safety equipment
should be regularly checked.
z Management of water levels may be desirable for maximising nature conservation interest. Levels
can easily be controlled using simple tamper-proof inlet/outlet structures.
6.17.3 CONTROL OF VEGETATION

z Aggressive emergent vegetation such as common reed can take over shallow waterbodies. The best
way to prevent this and ensure that areas of open water are retained is to create a varied pond
profile with approximately 30 40% of the surface area being greater than 1.2m deep.
z Reed can be cut back but this represents an ongoing maintenance commitment, as shallow areas
are rapidly recognised. Artificially increasing the depth of water by excavating or raising the outlet
level offers a long-term solution.
6.17.4 REMOVAL OF SILT

z Waterbodies will tend to silt up over time, especially when receiving surface water. Removing silt
and recreating areas of open water can reverse the process of natural succession.
z Care must be taken when using herbicides near water. (Glyphosate is approved for use on banks or
ditches in close proximity to watercourses; refer to Section 6.3).
z If a liner has been used in construction, care must be taken when using machinery in or around the
pond. Construction details of the waterbody should be included in the Landscape Management Plan
and potentially damaging operations identified.
z The timing of management operations should be carefully considered so that disturbance to wildlife
is minimised. Cyclical/sectional silt removal should be practiced where possible, with sections left
uncleared to act as a reservoir for aquatic life. Refer to guidance in HA BAP/TREBAP and DMRB
Volume 10, Section 4 Nature Conservation.
z Secondary mitigation measures such as amphibian fencing or crossing points could be warranted if
significant populations develop.
z The wildlife value of waterbodies should be monitored and rare or protected species noted.
Management can then be adjusted if necessary.
z Public safety should be considered, especially in relation to children. Fencing and appropriate
signage may need to be provided if the risk to public safety is thought to be high, e.g., the waterbody
lies next to a public footpath or public open space.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/41
6.18 HARD FEATURE MAINTENANCE
6.18.1 INTRODUCTION
z The management of hard features will require an integrated approach to management between
engineers and landscape managers, as many hard features have a landscape purpose and serve to
integrate with and enhance the soft landscape elements. Guidance on maintenance and repair of
hard features is contained in TRMM and BS7370, Part 2, 1994.
z Hard features to be managed include, boundary fencing, security fencing, railings, safety barriers,
reinforced earth walls, crib walling, seating and litterbins.
z Many of the routine management operations are related to weed control and clearance of unwanted
vegetation on structures. The landscape manager should offer technical advice on this.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
z The degree to which verges can be kept clean varies with the type of surface, amount of obstruction,
ease of access and levels of traffic, together with the associated problems of safety and traffic
management. The responsibilities for sweeping and cleaning of motorways vary between countries
(refer to Section 6.14.2).
z Wildlife fencing should be inspected, as part of the monitoring measures set out in the landscape
management plan, which will also include repairs required to deer fencing and deer reflectors carried
out as part of the landscape management works.
z Stonewalls should be periodically inspected for spalling or cracking in the mortar and stonework.
Walls in need of repair should be repaired using methods sympathetic to their original construction.
Devon banks and Cornish hedges should be maintained using locally sourced stone, soil, fill and
turves. Refer to Hedging; a practical handbook (BTCV) and Dry-stone Walling; a practical guide
(BTCV).
z Some hard landscape features have a closer link with the soft estate, e.g., wildlife fencing and
stonewalling, which the landscape manager may be expected to comment on.
6.18.2 TECHNIQUES
z Maintenance operations for hard landscape features include:
removal of debris and litter accumulation by picking and sweeping;
cleaning of dust and grit accumulation by sweeping, hose or vacuum;
cleaning of staining and spillage by washing down and solvent application;
graffiti removal by solvents and washing down;
general cleansing of all street furniture with detergents;
Cornish
Hedgebank
de-icing on footpaths, steps and ramps, as well as the road surface itself;
inspections and repairs to boundary fencing, both agricultural and urban; and
weed control.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/42
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.18.3 NOTES
z Salt should not be used on surfaces in close proximity to trees and planted areas because of
potential damage to low-level foliage from contact with the granules during application and to the
root systems from surface run-off of the salt solution. Evergreens and conifers are particularly
vulnerable. Salt should be applied with a calibrated spreader rather than by hand. Less damaging
alternatives such as calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) may be used in sensitive areas but are
more expensive.
z Although the TRMM specifies action on an as need basis, it is good practice that all paved surfaces
are routinely swept or washed down at least once a year just before the germination of weed seeds
in spring.
z Integrated control measures using various physical and chemical control methods of weed control
should be developed rather than blanket application of herbicides to control weeds in paved areas,
which are readily washed off hard surfaces onto plant beds and into drainage systems.
z Where repairs are carried out, matching materials and designs should be used.
Footpath and steps to be kept visible by cutting overhanging vegetation

NOVEMBER 2004
Paved surfaces require regular sweeping to prevent build up of debris and weed
growth
Celtic Cross that has had vegetation removed from around it

6/43
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.19 MANAGEMENT OF PROTECTED AND BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

SPECIES
Kestrel box will need cleaning

and treatment
6.19.1 INTRODUCTION
z The management of protected species relates to those protected species found most commonly in
the soft estate and includes those protected by statute and those species listed in the relevant
BAPS (refer to Table 8.1).
z The road operator will be responsible for maintaining ecological protection and mitigation measures
that have been put in place. For example bat boxes, newt fencing, badger tunnels, wildlife ledges,
protective mounds, deer reflectors and wildlife underpasses.
6.19.2 TECHNIQUES
z Maintenance techniques relate to the operations that need to be performed in order to ensure that
ecological protection is continued.
z The management of protected species and ecological protection measures have been documented
in related DMRB documents, to which reference should be made. Refer to the following Table
6.19.1.
Ramp to allow Otters to

navigate weir
6.19.3 NOTES
Newt fencing must be
maintained from
vegetation to be effective
Badger fencing under

construction
z Survey work on protected species is specific to lifecycles of flora and fauna, as is the timing of
implementing works, therefore specialist ecological advice should be sought.
z All works should be carried out with the appropriate licences in place, consult for requirements.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/44
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Table 6.19.1 DMRB Guidance Documents for Reference

(This is not an exclusive reference list of DMRB and other guidance notes, it is based upon information at the time of writing. Further guidance should be sought from other related conservation
bodies and the Devolved Administrations.)
SPECIES/PROTECTION MEASURE
ADVICE/GUIDANCE DOCUMENT
Badger
DMRB Volume 10, Section 4 Nature Conservation, Part 2: Mitigation Against Effects on Badgers February 1997
Bats
DMRB Volume 10, Section 4 Nature Conservation, Part 3: Nature Conservation Advice in Relation to Bats
Fresh water crayfish
Guidance on works affecting white-clawed crayfish, Stephanie Peay, June 2000, EN/EA
Otter
DMRB Volume 10, Section 4 Nature Conservation, Part 4: Nature Conservation Advise in Relation to Otters
Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (2001): Nature Conservation and Roads: Advice in Relation to Otters
Wildflower
DMRB Volume 10, Section 3, Part 1
Amphibians
DMRB Volume 10, Section 4, Part 6
Wildlife fencing
DMRB Volume 10, Section 5, Part 1: Design Guide for Environmental Barriers
DMRB Volume 10, Section 5, Part 2: Environmental Barriers-Technical Requirements
Biodiversity Action Plan Species
Highways Agency Biodiversity Action Plan
Birds
Highways and Birds. A Best Practice Guide HA (2001)
Various flora and fauna
Highways Agency Research Projects current March 2003

- revision of wildflower handbook
- review of wildlife fencing
- soft estate management for reptiles
- otter and water vole mitigation
- herbaceous plants in woodland
- habitat translocation
Management of grassland to encourage reptile to move elsewhere.

Grassland is being cut with cord ended strimmers (not blades)
Keeping a minimum of 50mm height to avoid damaging the reptiles
NOVEMBER 2004
6/45
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.20 MANAGEMENT OF PESTS AND DISEASES

6.20.1 INTRODUCTION
Spiral guards and tree

shelters used for rabbit
protection
z This relates to pests that cause regular damage to planting or occur as infestations and epidemics
that require control measures or eradication.
z This section considers the control of rabbits, voles, grey squirrels and deer. It also briefly considers
the pests and diseases that affect mature trees and amenity shrub beds.
z Injurious and noxious weeds are classified as pests and legislated under the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981, the Weeds Act 1959; and the Ragwort Control Act 2003 (refer to Section 6.4
for weed control techniques). Injurious and noxious weeds include: common ragwort, spear thistle,
creeping field thistle, broad leaved dock, curled dock, Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed.
z Pesticides use for the control of weeds and some diseases are contained in Section 6.3 and Section
6.4.
6.20.2 FENCING
z Rabbit-proof fencing is a protection measure for large blocks of planting. Rabbit proof fencing
600mm high is inadequate to deter hares, but a wire placed 150mm above the netting may deter
them.
z In areas of recent coppice, deer may be discouraged from feeding on the new growth by fencing off
areas with a conspicuous temporary fence at least 1.2m high (depending on species). This works on
the principle that deer dislike feeding in an enclosure. However, such a fence may look unsightly.
Limited protection can also be gained by heaping brash over recently cut coppice stools and/or the
use of a dead hedge around the plot boundary.
z Refer to DMRB advice note on wildlife fencing (in press).

6.20.3 GUARDS & SHELTERS
z Tree shelters and guards can provide a cost-effective method of protection against rabbits for
individual or small groups of trees, or where a problem is anticipated. The shelters or guards need
only be 60cm high, but this must take into account slopes.
z Tree shelters can be used to protect planting from deer and must be adequately staked to withstand
being knocked over. They must be 1.2m high to give protection against roe deer. Fencing is often
the best protection measure from fallow or red deer.
z Tree shelters can successfully provide protection against voles, but need to be close fitting to the
ground to prevent ingress. The maintenance of a weed-free one metre circle around each new plant
will also help, as voles are reluctant to cross bare ground. This is best maintained using a herbicide
as voles will nest and move under mulch mats.
6.20.4 CHEMICALS
z Chemical repellents can prove to be relatively quick and easy to apply for small or awkwardly
shaped areas, which may be cheaper than tree shelters or guards.
z Gassing rabbit burrows, the use of ferrets and live trapping (dangerous near roads) can provide an
effective control method in unfenced areas. Guidance on rabbit control is currently in preparation
and will form part of DMRB.
z An EU White Paper is proposing a single system to gather hazard information, assess risks,
classify, label, and restrict the marketing and use of individual chemicals and mixtures. (This is
known as the REACH system Registration, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals). The policy
would cover both new and existing substances. Chemicals deemed to be of most concern to human
health or the environment would be banned unless they were granted an authorisation for particular
uses that have been demonstrated to be safe. In terms of landscaping works this will help to
address the risk to humans and the environment from chemicals (e.g. herbicides and pesticides).
Current legislation should be checked before using such chemicals.
z The Forestry Commission advocates grey squirrel control by trapping or by poisoning using poison
bait in feeding hoppers that are designed to prevent non-target animals from entering and taking the
bait. However, care must be taken in areas where grey and red squirrel populations coincide.
Poisoned bait may also spill onto the ground and be eaten by non-target organisms. English Nature
and the Forest Authority can advise further on control methods for squirrels.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/46
6.20.5 NATURAL CONTROL
z Ecologically based control methods for deer may provide a cost effective and successful alternative
to tree shelters if deer populations are at an acceptable level. This includes retaining a natural
browse, especially bramble and hazel, to distract the deer from the desirable trees, and the limiting
of weeding and clearing to form a physical barrier around young trees, which will help protect them.
The retention of a scrubby barrier at the top of the embankment may protect tree and shrub planting
nearer to the highway.
z Common diseases and pests of mature trees include:

Tar spot in sycamore. This not serious and does not require treatment.
Aphids on sycamore and lime trees can be a major nuisance in urban areas.
Dutch elm disease for which there is no known remedy at present.
Fireblight, which is a severe bacterial disease of hawthorn, pyracanthus, sorbus and some
cotoneasters. No cure is available, diseased plants must be removed and burnt.
Canker, which is a bacteria that attacks malus and prunus. The diseased portions should be cut
out.
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
6.20.6 NOTES
z Existing methods of dealing with the problem of rabbit populations include the use of rabbit proof
fencing, tree guards and tree shelters, and using population control only when numbers reach
nuisance levels. Methods of population control have included gassing and the use of ferrets.
Gassing is an operation for a specialist contractor. This may prove to be costly and may lead to
unnecessary damage to both roadside planting and the vegetation of neighbouring landowners.
There may also be an impact on protected species, particularly badgers and reptiles that can
hibernate in rabbit burrows. Earlier intervention when populations are at lower levels may provide a
more effective solution. Refer to DMRB advice note on wildlife fencing (in press).
z Grazing problems may arise after tree guard removal, should a local rabbit population increase
rapidly or feeding patterns change. Occasional observations may need to be backed up by more
detailed inspections and the appropriate action taken, if required.
z Chemical repellents are considered a pesticide and have a controlled use as such. They are
phytotoxic to young flushing plant growth and only provide protection to the treated parts of the
plant. All plants have to be treated annually in late autumn. The use of chemical repellents may
therefore be limited to localised short-term use in response to problem areas, and the Forestry
Commission can offer advice on their use.
z Phytophthera, which is a soil borne pathogen that attacks young and mature trees of a wide range of
species. Soil sterilization and or the replanting of resistant plants will may occasionally be
necessary.
Honey fungus, which is a soil borne pathogen that spreads long black underground runners from
infected plants or stumps to nearby plants. Soil sterilization, and soil fungicides can be effective.
Sinking a physical barrier in the soil around them can protect important trees.
Athracnoses are a group of fungal diseases that attack many trees. Resistant varieties are
available.
Larvae and caterpillar attacks. Repellents can be used.
z Mulches need to be removed if they become affected by honey fungus.
NOVEMBER 2004
6/47
APPENDIX 6.1 BEST PRACTICE GUIDANCE FOR TREE INSPECTION
SYSTEMS (refer to Section 6.10.3)
A Risk Management Plan should include:
z A policy statement
z Goals and outcomes
z Guiding principles
z Resources
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Recording
The level of detail is for agents to decide, to ensure the system is adequate to prevent damage
or injury where the defect could have been foreseeable.
The recording system should be a computerised database designed for specifically managing
trees.
The system should report damage and trigger inspections.
A failure log should be set up to determine trends in tree failure.
z Risk zone maps

z Hazard rating to trees
z Training
z Recording
z Review
Staff Resources
Staff should be trained to differing levels of competence depending on the multifunctional
requirements in the management of a large tree stock.
Regular refresher training should be provided.
z A failure log
Tree stock records should include:
z An inventory
z Zoning of tree stock
z An overall assessment of risk from trees
z A risk assessment of individual trees
z A system of regular inspections
z A system for obtaining specialist assistance
NOVEMBER 2004
6/48
CHAPTER 7 PREPARATION OF LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT PLANS

7.1
INTRODUCTION
z It is the intention that in England, for the Trunk Road system, all Network Operators will have some
form of contractual requirement to record environmental aspects as part of an Environmental
Management Plan (EMP), which in turn may be part of an Environmental Management System
(EMS). Ultimately, these will be stored in the Environmetal System (GIS). LMPs will form part of an
EMP and this section gives guidance as to what an LMP should consist of.
z Due to different procurement methodologies employed by the Highways Authorities to deliver the
operation of the network, guidance is given on best practice principles, rather than giving a model
landscape management plan.
z By definition, an LMP is simply a means of recording how the soft estate is to be managed and will
cover visual/aesthetic/biodiversity/safety issues.
z LMP are critical for inheritance planning purposes and operational reasons.
7.2
BEST PRACTICE PRINCIPLES
z As the highway does not sit in isolation, and one of the functions of mitigation is to make the road fit
into the surrounding landscape, it will be critical to map the surrounding landscape as well as the
soft estate. Up to 200m each side from the centreline of the road should be considered. This would
include mapping land use and habitat types as a minimum. Compilers may wish to add other
information if it is relevant to managing the soft estate.
z Equally, the soft estate has to allow for many functions and the LMP should reflect this, meshing
with the requirements to maintain safety of and access to all highway furniture.
7.3
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
FORMAT
z The following format is a suggested minimum for an LMP:

Introduction
This should set the plan objectives and describe the structure of the plan.
Methodology
This section should set out the methodology used in surveying/recording including the date of the
surveys. The landscape resource as defined in Chapter 3 will need to be surveyed and recorded,
again using the DMRB system of Functions and Elements. Baseline information can be gained
by a variety of means; EIA studies, Environmental System surveys, specific biodiversity and
project specific studies. As the LMP will cover biodiversity issues it will be important to map BAP
Priority Habitats, and record instances of Priority Species.
The methodology should also explain what polices and plans will determine how the landscape
will be managed. These will determine the Environmental Functions. Functions will be guided by
several things but mostly by:
z Landscape Character Assessments
z Natural Area Profiles
z Local and Administration Biodiversity Action Plans
z TRMM (or equivalent) requirements
z As road operators need to manage the whole of the soft estate, LMP should record all of the
elements found there. Water, grassland, woodland, scrub using the Elements set out in DMRB Vol.
10 Section 0.
z For the Trunk Road system in England, there is an increasing tendency that the LMP will be audited
or be part of a Quality Assurance System. The LMP can help record delivery against targets, for
instance, HABAP targets. The Plan should record work carried out on the network in that financial
year and include a proposed work programme for the next financial year.
z Work programmes should include studies/assessments as well as management work. Biodiversity

studies will be needed to gain the information to comply with the HABAP, for instance. The
programme should record those that have taken place and those proposed.
z Local Authorities Local Plans may guide screening requirements.

The methodology for this section should explain how these drivers have been used to frame the
Environmental Functions and Elements.
Mapping
It is suggested that Route based LMPs should be mapped at 1:2500 scale. However this could
be reduced if it is felt that more detail is needed. The mapping would best use the same format
and be a GIS system as that laid out for the Environmental System. However the difference is
that the mapping needs to include the wider 400 metre corridor, not just the land within the
highway. An example of an LMP Map is included in Appendix 7.1.
z It should also set out the monitoring and review procedure that will apply to the plan. Unless
otherwise set out in the contract, the LMP should be updated annually and formally reviewed every
5 years. These procedures should be integrated with work programmes and cross-referenced in any
EMP that is in place.
NOVEMBER 2004
7/1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Text
The text that would accompany each Element needs to include its Environmental Function as set
out in DMRB Section 0, Vol. 10, however compilers are strongly encouraged to add additional
text to make the objectives more explicit. For example, screening from where to where, what
height is screening necessary, should it be all year round, are some important issues.
Remember, Functions are setting out what the Function of the Element is over the plan period,
not just what the Function is at the time of the compilation. Functions may need to change from
what is there now to what should be there. Examples of Environmental Functions can be found in
Appendix 7.2.
It will then be important to identify how the various Elements will help to deliver those Functions.
Using the Element codes it may not be enough to say native woodland. It might be necessary to
state whether it is supposed to be multi-layered woodland, the main species may need to be
listed, whether shrub species are scattered throughout, and the height of the woodland may be
important. Descriptions of vertical and or spatial structure may be necessary. It may be
necessary to explain the structure and species composition in more detail in order to explain to
the landscape manager what he/she is trying to achieve in order to fulfil the Environmental
Function.
Equally, simply mapping the element protected or BAP species will be insufficient. A fuller
description may include a population size estimate; site-specific requirements may need to be
explained. For example, narrow-headed ant colonies require very high exposure to sunlight with
minimal shading. Examples of Environmental Elements can be seen in Appendix 7.2.
Work Programmes
These should record:
l what has been managed against each Element. This should be updated on a yearly basis at
the end of each financial year; and
l what is to be managed, for the next financial year, as a minimum.
These programmes should cover all works and studies carried out on the soft estate, including
grassland and woodland management and specific species programmes.
7.4
DATABASES AND LMPs
l A database such as the Environmental System is the single place where information could be held
electronically and displayed via a GIS system. It would seem sensible to record LMPs in such a way
as could be stored and displayed via each road operators own GIS/database.
NOVEMBER 2004
7/2
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

APPENDIX 7.1
EXAMPLE OF LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT PLAN

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4700
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NOVEMBER 2004
6.2
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Intended scrubland
Bare rock
Archaeological/H istoric designation
Intended hedgerows
W atercourse
U -Unim proved
SI-Sem i-Im proved
I-Im proved
Settlem ent/Dwelling
Hedgerow orHedgebank
O therbuiltenvironm ent
IN SID E H IG H W AY
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Highway m arkerpost
Inform ation /D irection Sign
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Intended woodland
Single large tree
Footpath /Bridleway
Layby
Intended single tree
Scrubland
Tree preservation order
Key view
Intended grassland habitat
Heathland
Ancientwoodland
Elem entno.
P -Poor
M -M edium
G -G ood
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Nature conservation designation
Specialnote
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TO C H IVER TO N C R O SS
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7/3
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
9300
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Intended scrubland
Archaeological/H istoric designation
Intended hedgerows
IN SID E H IG H W AY
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5.10.4
Highway m arkerpost
O therintended habitat(specified)
Inform ation /D irection Sign
Intended woodland
Single large tree
Footpath /Bridleway
Layby
Tree preservation order
Key view
Intended grassland habitat
Elem entno.
P -Poor
M -M edium
G -G ood
Arable
Ancientwoodland
Nature conservation designation
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NOVEMBER 2004
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TH IS D R AW IN G W AS PR O D U C ED U SIN G M APIN FO
AN D SH O U LD O N N O AC C O U N T BE AM EN D ED BY H AN D
R EPR O D U C ED FR O M TH E O R D N AN C E SU R VEY M AP W ITH TH E

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O FFIC E. C R O W N C O PYR IG H T.LIC EN C E N U M BER :100018928
7/4
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
NOVEMBER 2004
7/5
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Text
The text that would accompany each Element needs to include its Environmental Function as set
out in DMRB Section 0, Vol. 10, however compilers are strongly encouraged to add additional
text to make the objectives more explicit. For example, screening from where to where, what
height is screening necessary, should it be all year round, are some important issues.
Remember, Functions are setting out what the Function of the Element is over the plan period,
not just what the Function is at the time of the compilation. Functions may need to change from
what is there now to what should be there. Examples of Environmental Functions can be found in
Appendix 7.2.
It will then be important to identify how the various Elements will help to deliver those Functions.
Using the Element codes it may not be enough to say native woodland. It might be necessary to
state whether it is supposed to be multi-layered woodland, the main species may need to be
listed, whether shrub species are scattered throughout, and the height of the woodland may be
important. Descriptions of vertical and or spatial structure may be necessary. It may be
necessary to explain the structure and species composition in more detail in order to explain to
the landscape manager what he/she is trying to achieve in order to fulfil the Environmental
Function.
Equally, simply mapping the element protected or BAP species will be insufficient. A fuller
description may include a population size estimate; site-specific requirements may need to be
explained. For example, narrow-headed ant colonies require very high exposure to sunlight with
minimal shading. Examples of Environmental Elements can be seen in Appendix 7.2.
Work Programmes
These should record:
z what has been managed against each Element. This should be updated on a yearly basis at
the end of each financial year; and
z what is to be managed, for the next financial year, as a minimum.
These programmes should cover all works and studies carried out on the soft estate, including
grassland and woodland management and specific species programmes.
7.4
DATABASES AND LMPs
z A database such as the Environmental System is the single place where information could be held
electronically and displayed via a GIS system. It would seem sensible to record LMPs in such a way
as could be stored and displayed via each road operators own GIS/database.
NOVEMBER 2004
7/2

APPENDIX 7.2
ELEMENTS
EXAMPLES OF ENVIRONMENTAL FUNCTIONS AND
Example 1
Environmental Function Visual Screening
To provide up to 10m high screen to road and traffic from houses in Becky Road whilst
permitting views over the top of woodland screen to valley beyond.
Landscape Element Woodland
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Example 4
Environmental Function Visual Amenity
To provide colourful planting to emphasize gateway into built up area of Glossop.
Landscape Element Ornamental Shrubs
Ornamental shrub to 1.5m high, species include berberris, cotoneaster, ceanothus. Maintain
shrubs clear of paths and roadway. Maintain planting free of dead vegetation and litter at all
times to ensure 100% ground coverage.
Multi-layered dense mixed woodland not more than 10 meters high, species to include holly
(20%), field maple (20%), hazel (20%), hawthorn (20%) and whitebeam (5%). Holly to be
scattered throughout the plot. Woodland edge on roadside to be dogwood (5%) and wayfaring
tree (15%). Screening must be maintained at all times. Corridor underneath overhead power
lines to be kept free of trees.
Example 2
Environmental Function Landscape Integration
To replicate shape and form of hedgerow trees in surrounding landscape.
Landscape Element Scattered Trees
Single pedunculate oak trees, at the top of the embankment only, with main stem exposed to
browse line height.
Example 3
Environmental Function Nature Conservation and Biodiversity
To provide floristically rich limestone grassland (NVC) for the main purpose of providing a
habitat for colony of Adonis blue butterfly.
Landscape Element Species Rich Grassland
Limestone grassland, ensure survival of good colonies of horseshoe vetch, restrict any cutting
and raking to winter months and never cut closer than 50mm to the ground. Butterfly likes
areas where vegetation is sparse and there is some bare ground so some scarifying may be
needed. BAP species.
NOVEMBER 2004
7/6
CHAPTER 8 TABLE 8.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
COMPARISON OF LEGISLATION, GUIDANCE, HIGHWAY TERMINOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES USED BY UK GOVERNMENTS
Legislation, Guidance, Term,
Procedure
England
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Overseeing Organisation
Highways Agency
Department for Regional

Development Roads Service
Scottish Executive Transport

Group: Network Management
Division
Transport Directorate, Welsh Assembly

Govt (Y Gyfarwyddiaeth Drafnidiaeth,
Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru)
Network Operator
Managing Agent

Operating Company
Trunk Road Agents (may change

in 2004)
Hard Feature Maintenance
Motorways and Trunk Roads Responsibility of Network Operator

Operating Company
Litter Collection
Motorways Highways Agency

(Managing Agent)
Motorways Department for

Regional Development Roads
Service
Motorways: Operating Compan
Legislation
Trunk Roads Local Authority
Other roads Local Authority
Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981

as amended
The Wildlife (Northern Ireland)

Order 1985
Trunk Roads: Local Authority
As England
As England
Not in Scotland
As England
The Wildlife (Amendment)

(Northern Ireland) Order 1995
Countryside and Rights of Way
(CROW) Act 2000
The Access to the Countryside

(Northern Ireland) Order 1983
Countryside Access (Amendment)
Regulations (Northern Ireland)
1996
Highways Act 1980
NOVEMBER 2004
The Roads (Northern Ireland)

Order 1993
(will be covered in Nature

Conservation Bill currently in draft
and due to be passed in 2004)
Roads (Scotland) Act 1984
As England
8/1
CHAPTER 8 TABLE 8.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

Procedure
England
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Legislation (cont)
Conservation (Natural Habitats

&c.) Regulations 1994
(as amended)
The Conservation (Natural Habitats,

etc.) (Northern Ireland)
Regulations 1995
As England
As England
Hedgerow Regulations 1997
As England
As England
Wild Mammals Act 1996
Protection of Wild Mammals

(Scotland) Act 2002
As England
The Conservation (Natural Habitats,

etc.) (Amendment) Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1997
Protection of Badgers Act 1992

Weeds Act 1959
Environmental Impact Assessment
(Highways) Regulations 1999
Roads (Environmental Impact

Assessment) Regulations
(Northern Ireland) 1999
As England
As England
Statutory Nature Conservation

Organisations
English Nature
Department of the Environment

Environment and Heritage Service
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH)
Countryside Council for Wales
Environmental Agencies
Environment Agency
Department of the Environment

Environment and Heritage Service
Scottish Environment Protection

Agency (SEPA)
Environment Agency Wales
Guidance
PPG9 Nature Conservation 1994
National Planning Policy Guidance

(NPPG) 14, Natural Heritage 1999
TAN5 1996 Planning Policy Wales

March 2002
Trunk Roads Biodiversity Action

Plan (2000) Review for Discussion
TREBAP (in draft 1/2003)
HABAP
Roads Service Environmental

Handbook
The Transport Framework for Wales

2001
Trunk Road Forward Programme 2002
NOVEMBER 2004
8/2
CHAPTER 8 TABLE 8.1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04

Procedure
England
Northern Ireland
Scotland
Wales
Guidance (cont)
Trunk Road Maintenance Manual

(TRMM)
Not in Northern Ireland covered

by Roads Service Policy &
Procedures Guide E019
Not in Scotland (covered as

Employers Requirements in the
Term Contract For Management
And Maintenance Of The Scottish
Trunk Road Network)
The Transport Framework for Wales

2001
Trunk Road Forward Programme
2002
Environmental System (previously

known as Environmental Data
Base (EDB))
Landscape Management Plans
NOVEMBER 2004
Landscape Action Plans
Design Manual for Roads and

Bridges (DMRB)
As England
As England
As England
Local Biodiversity Action Plan
Northern Ireland Habitat &

Species Action Plans
As England
As England
8/3
CHAPTER 8 ABBREVIATIONS
AONB
APTR
ASSI
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

All Purpose Trunk Road
Area of Special Scientific Interest (N.I.)
BSI
BTCV
British Standards Institution

British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
CCW
CDA
CMA
COPR
COSHH
CROW
Countryside Council for Wales

Controlled Droplet Applicator
Calcium Magnesium Acetate
Control of Pesticides Regulations, 1986
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations, 1988
Countryside and Rights of Way Act, 2000
DA
DEFRA
DETR
DMRB
Devolved Administration
Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Department of Transport and the Regions
Design Manual for Roads and Bridges
EA
EDB
EEC
EMP
EMS
EN
ESA
Environment Agency
Environmental Database
European Environment Commission
Environmental Management Plan
Environmental Management System
English Nature
Environmentally Sensitive Area
FEPA
Food and Environment Protection Act, 1985
GIS
Geographic Information System
HA
HABAP
HSE
Highways Agency
Highways Agency Biodiversity Action Plan
Health and Safety Executive
LE
LMH
LMP
LNMS
Landscape Element
Landscape Management Handbook
Landscape Management Plan
Local Network Management Scheme
NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
RSPB
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
SAC
SNCO
SPA
SSSI
Special Area for Conservation

Statutory Nature Conservation Organisation
Special Protection Area
Site of Special Scientific Interest
TAN
TPO
TREBAP
TRMM
Technical Advice Note (Wales)

Tree Preservation Order
Trunk Road Estate Biodiversity Action Plan
Trunk Road Maintenance Manual
WTRMM
WCA
Welsh Trunk Road Maintenance Manual

Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981
ULV
Ultra low volume
8/4
CHAPTER 9 GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Environmental barrier
A barrier which combines the function of visual screen and

noise barrier to protect residential, recreational and other
vulnerable areas alongside a road.
The variety of life on Earth. Most often articulated in terms

of the abundance and variety of species and habitats.
Environmental Database
The combination of engineering materials and vegetation

to provide defence against erosion and slip, eg geotextiles
and grass.
A standardised, nationally consistent database of the

Highways Agencys ecological and environmental assets
designed both for operational and strategic purposes.
Environmental Element
A feature occurring in the highway estate that is relevant to

achieving the non-landscape environmental functions in
respect of auditory amenity, water quality, and nature
conservation/biodiversity.
Environmental Function
The purpose of the landscape and environmental

elements; why they are there and what they are intended
to achieve in environmental terms.
Environmental Management
Plan
Route based plans produced by Network Operators that

deal with the management of all environmental elements
on the soft estate.
Geographical Information
System
A generic term for a computer program that can store,

retrieve and manipulate data related to a digital mapping
system.
Arborist/Arboriculturalist
A person with a recognised qualification in the care and

management of trees.
Biodiversity
Bio-engineering
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Canopy
The uppermost layer of woodland structure, which contains

the standard (climax) emergent and understorey trees.
Chipping
The use of a machine, a woodchipper, to reduce tree

waste and softer prunings, such as gorse and bramble, to
small chips for distribution on site or removal for
composting.
Coppicing
The regular cutting down of trees and shrubs near ground

level, allowing the tree or shrub to re-grow from the stump.
Crown
The spreading branches and foliage of a tree.
Crown lifting
A pruning technique to provide clearance below a tree by

removing the lower branches, so raising the canopy as it
develops.
Groundcover
A technique to reduce the overall size of a tree by pruning

back to its main branches whilst maintaining its overall
shape.
Plants, which by their natural habitat of low close growth

are suitable for covering the ground surface and
discouraging weeds.
Growth retardant
A chemical that temporarily restricts shoot growth.
Habitat
(i)
(ii)
Hard Estate
The engineering/operational part of the highway estate,

including structures, carriageways, hard shoulder and
central reserve that are constructed with concrete, tarmac,
steel etc.
Crown reduction
Crown thinning
A technique to reduce the overall density of a trees crown

by removing up to 30% of its branches.
Design Manual for Roads

and Bridges (DMRB)
A comprehensive handbook published by the Department

of Transport, providing best practice guidance for the
construction, operation and management of roads and
bridges.
Enrichment Planting
Secondary planting, often after thinning, to improve

species diversity, screening etc.
NOVEMBER 2004
The normal abode of a plant or animal.

The recognisable area or environment in which an
organism normally lives.
9/1
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Naturalised
A species, having been introduced, that colonises places

where not indigenous.
Network
The trunk road and motorway network for which the

Agency is responsible.
Network Operator
Organisation responsible for the day-to-day management,

maintenance and operation of the road network, including
works of an environmental nature.
Nurse species
A species that is planted to protect other species by

providing shelter, shade and preventing weed growth
during the initial establishment period.
A record of how to manage landscape and environmental

features.
Pernicious
Persistent and having qualities harmful to other plants or

animals.
objective
The intended way in which the landscape or environmental

feature will achieve its function.
Pesticide
(i)
Laying
A technique used to rejuvenate and thicken hedges by

cutting part way through a standing stem and then
positioning (laying) it to form a barrier.
Leggy
Unduly long and spindly growth of stems.
A generic term used under the Food and Environment

Protection Act 1985 to cover any substance,
preparation or organism prepared or used, to protect
plants or wood or other plant products from harmful
organisms; to regulate the growth of plants to give
protection against harmful creatures, or to render
such creatures harmless. It includes herbicides,
insecticides, fungicides, and growth retardant.
Mulch
A protective covering that is spread on bare ground around

plants to inhibit evaporation and weed growth, control soil
temperature, and enrich the soil.
(ii)
A more specific term to cover a material for killing a

pest or pathogen.
National Association of
Agricultural Contractors
The NAAC represents contractors in the UK who supply all

types of land-based services to farmers, government, local
authorities, sports and recreational facilities. All contractors
are welcome as members, whether they are large or small
businesses, specifically land, livestock or amenity based
farmers with a contracting sideline or whole farm
contractors.
The NAAC is committed to representing the interests of
contractors at national and European level; it will offer
information and advice; promote the services of its
members and assist contractors in providing a professional
and competitive service to farmers and the community.
Heading back
A pruning technique that entails cutting back the previous

seasons growth to within a few centimetres of older stems
in late February each year.
Herbicide
A chemical used to destroy or control unwanted plant

growth.
Landmark feature
A feature designed to orientate and impart a sense of place

or progress to travellers.
Landscape Manager
A person with the appropriate training and qualification for

maintaining the soft estate.
Plan
NOVEMBER 2004
Phytotoxic
Poisonous to plants.
Pollarding
Method of managing trees, by cutting the trunk at head

height or higher to prevent grazing by animals, and letting
it regrow to produce branches which are repeatedly cut at
regular intervals.
Priority Habitats
A habitat for which a costed Action Plan has been prepared

in the UKBAP (formerly referred to as key habitats).
Priority Species
A species for which a costed Action Plan has been

prepared in the UKBAP.
9/2

Road verge
In engineering terms, the operational clearance margin,

usually grassed, on either side of a road or between the
road and embankment or cutting slope.
Soft estate
The natural, vegetated part of the highway estate.
Thinning
The removal of selected trees or shrubs from group

planting to give the remainder more growing space.
Trunk Road Maintenance

Manual
A Highways Agency handbook providing detailed guidance

to contractors undertaking the maintenance and
management work on the trunk road network. It includes
requirements relating to the maintenance of all landscape
and ecological elements within the Highways Agencys
responsibility.
Wildlife corridor
A linear habitat feature that links two or more habitats

within a landscape and along which wildlife can move.
NOVEMBER 2004
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
9/3
CHAPTER 10
REFERENCES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Agate E, 1984, Hedging: A Practical Handbook, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
Crop Protection Council, 1992, The UK Pesticide Guide, CAB International/British
Arboricultural Association, 1985, Trees on Development Sites
Davis R J, Trees and Weeds: weed control for successful establishment, Forestry Commission
Handbook 2
Arboricultural Association, 1987, A Guide to Tree Pruning

Andrews J & Rebane M, 1994, Farming & Wildlife, Royal Society for the Protection of Birds,
Sandy
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1992, Design Manual for Roads
and Bridges, The Stationery Office, London
Andrews J et al, 1994, The New Rivers & Wildlife Handbook, RSPB
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 1998, A New Deal for Transport in
England, The Stationery Office, London
Barnett J P & Baker J B, 1990 Regeneration Methods, In Forest Regeneration Methods (eds.
Duryea M L & Dougherty P M), Kleuwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht
Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions, 2001, Delivering Best Value in
Highway Maintenance: Code of Practice for Maintenance Management
Blyth J, Evans J, Mutch W E S & Sidwell C, 1991, Farm Woodland Management, (2nd edn.)
Farming Press
Department of Environment, 1992, Guidance Control of Weeds on Non-Agricultural Land

Department of Environment, 1992, Weed Control and Environmental Protection
British Agrochemicals Association, 1993, Amenity Handbook: A Guide to the Selection and
Use of Amenity Pesticides
British Standard
BS 3938:1989 Recommendations for Tree Work
BS 4428:1989 Code of Practice for General Landscape Operations
BS 5837:1991 Trees in Relation to Construction
BS 7370: Ground Maintenance parts 1, 2, 3, 4
Emery M, 1986, Promoting Nature in Cities and Towns: a practical guide, Croom Helm,
Beckenham
English Nature, 1993, Roads and Nature conservation: Guidance on Impacts, mitigation and
enhancement
English Nature, 1999, Biodiversity: Making the Links, English Nature, Biodiversity Series,
Peterborough
Brooks A, Dry-stone walling: A Practical Handbook, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
English Nature, 1999, Lowland Grassland Management Handbook
Brooks A, 1980, Woodlands: A Practical Handbook, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
Brooks A, 1981, Waterways & Wetlands: A Practical Handbook, British Trust for Conservation
Volunteers
English Nature, 2003, The Herbicide Handbook: Guidance on the use of herbicides on nature
conservation sites
Brooks A, 1988, Woodlands - a practical handbook, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers
English Nature, 2003, The Scrub Management Handbook: Guidance on the management of
scrub on nature conservation sites
Byron H, 2000, Biodiversity and Environmental Impact Assessment: A good practice guide for
Road Schemes. The RSPB, WWF-UK, English Nature and the Wildlife Trusts, Sandy
Environment Agency, 2003, Guidance for the Control of Invasive Weeds in or near Fresh
Water
Cobham R, 1990, Amenity Landscape Management
Evans J, 1984, Silviculture of Broadleaved Woodland, Forestry Commission Bulletin 62
Crofts et al, 1994, The Lowland Grassland Management Handbook
Evans J, 1988, Natural Regeneration of Broadleaves, Forestry Commission Bulletin 78
NOVEMBER 2004
10/1
CHAPTER 10
REFERENCES
Gardiner B A, Stacey G R, Belcher R E & Wood C J, 1997, Field and Wind Tunnel
Assessments of the Implications of Re-spacing and Thinning for Tree Stability, Forestry 70
No 3 pp 233 - 251
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Institution of Highways and Transportation, 2001, The Environmental Management of

Highways
Garfitt J E, 1977, The Management of Motorway Plantings, Quarterly Journal of Forestry 71

pp 162-164
Jennings S B, Brown N D & Sheil D, 1999, Assessing Forest Canopies and Understory
Illumination: canopy closure, canopy cover and other measures, Quarterly Journal of Forestry,
72 pp 59-73
Garfitt J E, 1977a, Irregular Silviculture in the Service of Amenity, Quarterly Journal of Forestry
71 pp 82-85
Kirby K J, 1988, A Woodland Survey Handbook, Joint Nature Conservation Committee,

Research and Survey in Nature Conservation 11
Garfitt J E, 1980, Treatment of Natural Regeneration of Young Broadleaved Crops, Quarterly

Journal of Forestry 74, 236-239
Kirby K J, 1995, Rebuilding the English Countryside: habitat fragmentation and wildlife
corridors as issues in practical conservation, English Nature Science Series 10
Garfitt J E, 1984, The Group Selection System, Quarterly Journal of Forestry 78 pp 155-158
MAFF/HSE, Pesticides approved under the Control of Pesticides Regulations
Garfitt J E, 1995, Natural Management of Woods - Continuous Cover Forestry, Research

Studies Press, Taunton
Matney T G & Hodges J D, 1990, Evaluating Regeneration Success, In Forest Regeneration

Methods (eds. Duryea M L & Dougherty P M) pp 321 - 331, Kleuwer Academic Publishers,
Dordrecht
Gilbert O L & Anderson P, 1998, Habitat Creation and Repair, Oxford University Press
Matthews J D, 1989, Silvicultural Systems, Clarendon Press, Oxford
Harmer R & Kerr G, 1996, Natural Regeneration - is more advice needed?, Quarterly Journal
of Forestry 90 pp 190-196
Miller R W, 1997, Urban Forestry Planning and Managing Urban Greenspace, Prentice Hall,
New Jersey
Hart C, 1991, Practical Forestry for the Agent and Surveyor, Sutton Publishing, Stroud
Hart C, 1995, Alternative Systems to Clear Cutting in Britain: a review, Forestry Commission
Bulletin 115
Helliwell D R, 1988, Uneven Aged Woodlands in Britain: Advantages, Disadvantages and
Problems, Arboricultural Journal 12 pp 273-278
Mutch W, 1998, Tall Trees and Small Woods: how to grow and tend them, Mainstream
Publishing, Edinburgh
National Joint Utilities Group, 1995, Publication No10: Guidelines for the Planning, Installation
and Maintenance of Utility Services in Proximity to Trees
Parker D M, 1995, Habitat Creation - a critical guide, English Nature Science Series 21
Helliwell D R, 1999a, Continuous Cover Forestry, Continuous Cover Forestry Group

Highways Agency, 1999, Trunk Road Maintenance Manual
Peniston M J, 1938, The Selection System - irregular silviculture, Quarterly Journal of Forestry
32, pp 51-54
Highways Agency, Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works
Pepper H, 1992, Forestry Authority Bulletin 102: Forestry Fencing
Hodge S J,1995, Woodlands Around Towns, Forest Authority Handbook 11
Peterken G F, 1981, Woodland Conservation and Management, Chapman & Hall, London
Peterken G F, 1996, Natural Woodland: ecology and conservation in northern temperate
regions, University Press, Cambridge
NOVEMBER 2004
10/2
CHAPTER 10
REFERENCES
VOLUME 10 SECTION 3
PART 2 HA 108/04
Potter M, Forestry Commission Handbook 7: Treeshelters

Rodwell J, Patterson G, 1994, Creating New Native Woodlands, Forestry Commission Bulletin
112
Rowe J, Forestry Authority Leaflet 56: Grey Squirrel Control
Savill P, Evans J, Auclair D, Falk J, 1997, Plantation Silviculture in Europe, Oxford University
Press, Oxford
Scottish Office, 1998, Cost Effective Landscape: Learning from Nature, Edinburgh
Shephard K R, 1986, Plantation Silviculture, Martinus Nijhoff Publishers, Dordrecht
Troup R S, 1952, Silvicultural Systems, (2nd edn.) (Jones E W ed.), Clarendon Press, Oxford
NOVEMBER 2004
10/3
Chapter 11
Enquiries
Volume 10 Section 3
Part 2 HA 108/04
11. ENQUIRIES
All technical enquiries or comments on this Advice Note should be sent in writing as appropriate to:
Chief Highway Engineer

The Highways Agency
123 Buckingham Palace Road
London
SW1W 9HA
G CLARKE
Chief Road Engineer

Scottish Executive
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh
EH6 6QQ
J HOWISON
Chief Road Engineer

Transport Directorate
Welsh Assembly Government
Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru
Crown Buildings
Cardiff
CF10 3NQ
M J A PARKER
Transport Directorate
Assistant Director of Engineering

The Department for Regional Development
Roads Service
Clarence Court
10-18 Adelaide Street
Belfast BT2 8GB
D OHAGAN
Assistant Director of Engineering
November 2004
11/1

HA 108-04 Landscape Management Handbook (DMRB, 2004)

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HA 108-04 Landscape Management Handbook (DMRB, 2004)

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DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

Insert HA 108/04 into Volume 10, Section 3.

Please archive this sheet as appropriate.

Note: A quarterly index with a full set of Volume

DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

THE HIGHWAYS AGENCY

Provides guidance on landscape management of highways, including decision

Signature & Date of

Signature & Date of

Signature & Date of

Signature & Date of

DESIGN MANUAL FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES

Introduction to the Landscape Management

Landscape Management of Highways

The Highway Resource

Management Issues and Tables

Techniques of Landscape Management

Landscape Management Plans

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK

z landscape management carried out on roadsides can contribute to wider initiatives.

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK

1.13 A comparison of relevant organisations, legislation, guidance, and management

1.14 The Handbook is structured as follows:

Chapter 1 Introduction to Landscape Management Handbook

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT HANDBOOK

Chapter 5 Management Issues and Tables

CHAPTER 2 LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT OF HIGHWAYS

z making decisions in relation to landscape management (see Chapter 4);

z delivery documents Landscape Management Plans (see Chapter 7).

z recognising management issues (see Chapter 5);

CHAPTER 3 THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

Buzzard nest in roadside woodland - part of the resource

RECORDING AND CLASSIFYING THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

Trees above have a visual screening function for houses

CHAPTER 3 THE HIGHWAY RESOURCE

When formulating management strategies for roadside vegetation, the setting of

z Landscape Integration and Regional Landscape Character.

LANDSCAPE AND ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS

Species Rich Grassland

CHAPTER 4 DECISION MAKING

Survey, Record & Classify

CHAPTER 4 DECISION MAKING

LEGISLATION AND POLICY GUIDANCE

treated (including recycling and using mobile plant); or

THIRD PARTY DECISIONS

CHAPTER 4 DECISION MAKING

CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

Traffic management issues

CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

AMENITY GRASS AREAS

z Treatment of arisings can be an issue in urban areas depending on peoples expectations of

Close mown amenity grass provides better integration in urban areas

z Be aware of future land-use changes in surrounding areas and townscape.

CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

operate cutting regimes in sympathy with surrounding areas

Enhancing the Built Environment

provide setting for heritage sites

CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

GRASSLAND WITH BULBS

Ornamental bulb planting

z Bulbs should be controlled where they may affect visibility splays.

CHAPTER 5 MANAGEMENT ISSUES AND TABLES

Enhancing the Built Environment