Agenda Document Pack - Climate Change and Sustainability Committee - 18/02/2026
Perth and Kinross Council · 18 February 2026
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 18 February 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Ambition | Compassion | Integrity Our vision is for a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality Council Building 2 High Street Perth PH1 5PH 11/02/2026 A hybrid meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee will be held in the Council Chamber on Wednesday, 18 February 2026 at 13:00. If you have any queries please contact Democratic Services on (01738) 475000 or email Committee@pkc.gov.uk. THOMAS GLEN Chief Executive Those attending the meeting are requested to ensure that all notifications are silent on their device and other devices are in silent mode. Please note that the meeting will be broadcast online and recorded. The recording will be publicly available on the Council’s website following the meeting. Members: Councillor Richard Watters (Convener) Councillor Liz Barrett (Vice-Convener) Councillor Hugh Anderson Councillor Andy Chan Councillor Ken Harvey Councillor David Illingworth Councillor Noah Khogali Councillor Grant Laing Depute Provost Andrew Parrott Councillor Grant Stewart Councillor Jack Welch Page 1 of 86
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Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Wednesday, 18 February 2026 Agenda Members are reminded of their obligation to declare any financial or non- financial interest which they may have in any item on this agenda in accordance with the councillors’ code of conduct. 1 WELCOME AND APOLOGIES 2 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST 3 MINUTE OF MEETING OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE OF 10 NOVEMBER 2025 FOR APPROVAL (copy herewith) 5 - 8 4 OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (copy herewith 26/44) 9 - 10 5 THE PERTH AND KINROSS CIRCULAR ECONOMY STRATEGY 2026-2031 Report by Strategic Lead - Environment and Infrastructure (copy herewith 26/45) 11 - 50 6 TREE PLANTING POLICY Report by Strategic Lead - Housing and Communities (copy herewith 26/46) 51 - 86 Page 3 of 86
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DRAFT Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Minute of hybrid meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee held in the Council Chambers on 10 November 2025 at 9.30am. Present: Councillors R Watters, L Barrett, H Anderson, A Chan, D Illingworth, K Harvey, N Khogali, G Laing, I MacPherson (substituting for Councillor J Welch), A Parrott and G Stewart. In Attendance: C Mailer, Depute Chief Executive; F Crofts, Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure; S Merone, Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning; D Stubbs and S Whyte (Housing & Communities) (both up to and including Item 5), G Key and N Lennon (Property Services); P Leonard, D Grant, S McLaren, E Kourtesi (up to and including Item 7), R Stewart, R Haynes (all Environment and Infrastructure); S Hendry, A Taylor, A Brown and M Pasternak (all Legal and Governance). Apology for absence: Councillor J Welch. Councillor R Watters, Convener, Presiding. The Convener led on Items 1-4, and 6, with Vice-Convener L Barrett on Items 5 and 8. 1. Welcome And Apologies Councillor Watters welcomed everyone to the meeting. An apology for absence was noted as above. 2. Declarations Of Interest There were no Declarations of Interest made in terms of the Councillors’ Code of Conduct. 3. Minute Of Meeting of Climate Change and Sustainability Committee of 20 August 2025 The minute of meeting of Climate Change and Sustainability Committee of 20 August 2025 was submitted and approved as correct record. 4. Outstanding Business Statement Resolved: The status of actions in the Outstanding Business Statement, be noted and completed actions removed accordingly 5. Perth and Kinross Outdoor Access Forum Annual Report 2024-25 There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Housing and Communities (25/301) summarising the activities and progress of the Perth and Kinross Outdoor 3 Page 5 of 86
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DRAFT Access Forum over the last year and recommending the appointment of two new members to the Forum. Resolved: (i) The appointment of two new members as detailed in Appendix 1 to Report 25/301 for a period of four years, be approved. (ii) It be noted that the remaining members be retained in their appointments for at least a further year as set out in Appendix 1 to Report 25/301. (iii) It be delegated to the Strategic Lead (Housing & Communities) to fill any casual vacancy arising during this period through recruitment by Forum members, as detailed within the Forum’s Terms of Reference. (iv) The contribution of one retiring member, the activities and progress of the Forum since October 2024 and the ongoing commitment to maximise effective partnership working to make the best of the exceptional landscapes, paths networks and access rights for all within Perth and Kinross, be noted. (v) The progress in reviewing the working relationship between the Council and Forum and the possible need to bring proposals for any formal changes to a future committee, be noted. 6. Annual update on the delivery plan (2024-2029) for Perth & Kinross Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy and Local Area Energy Plan (2024-2045) There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Economy, Development and Planning (25/297) providing details on the progress in implementing the Delivery Plan (2024-2029) for the Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) (2024-2045) and seeking approval of the priorities for the next twelve months. (There Followed a Brief Recess and the Meeting Reconvened at 10.23am). Resolved: (i) The progress made during the last year towards the outcomes set out with the Local Heat & Energy Efficiency Strategy (LHEES) and Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) (2024-2045), be noted. (ii) The LAEP priorities for the next 12 months, as detailed in Section 7 of Report 25/297, be approved. 7. Public Bodies Climate Change Duties Compliance Reporting 2025 – Carbon Emissions There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure (25/298) providing scrutiny of the Council’s statutory annual Public Sector Climate Change Reporting Duty submission and including an update on the Council’s carbon footprint and emissions trends for the reporting year 2024/25 financial year, and wider actions the Council is taking to address the Climate Emergency. Resolved: Page 6 of 86
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DRAFT (i) The contents of the report, along with the updated report to the Scottish Government as detailed in Appendix A to Report 25/298, be noted. (ii) The top 5 priorities for both Climate Governance and Climate Adaptation as presented in Section 5 of Report 25/298, be approved. 8. The Flood Risk Management (Scotland) Act 2009 Publication of Cycle 2 Interim Report There was submitted a report by Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure (25/300) (1) seeking acknowledgement of the content of the interim reports on the Local Flood Risk Management Plans, and (2) following publication of the second Local Flood Risk Management Plans in December 2022, presenting the final drafts of the Interim Reports on the progress made with the implementation of the plans by the required deadline of no later than December 2025. Resolved: (i) The progress made on delivering the Local Flood Risk Management Plans published in December 2022 as set out in the Interim Reports, be endorsed. (ii) The content of the Interim Reports on the Local Flood Risk Management Plans for the Tay District and the Council’s input to the Interim Reports for the Forth, the Forth Estuary and the Tay Estuary & Montrose Basin Districts, be acknowledged. (iii) It be approved that the Strategic Lead – Environment and Infrastructure will carry out final minor amendments to the Interim Reports, if required, prior to final publication due in December 2025. (iv) The proposed arrangements for publication of the Interim Reports, be approved. ~~~~~~~~ Page 7 of 86
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CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMITTEE OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STATEMENT (OBS) (Report No. 26/44) Please note that this statement sets out outstanding decisions of this committee along with an update and estimated completion date. Actions which are overdue are shaded for ease of reference. Where an update reflects that an action is complete then the Committee’s agreement will be sought to its removal from the OBS. No Minute Reference Subject Title Outstanding Action Update Lead Officer /Service Action Due / Complete Action Expected 10. 10 November 2025 Item 5 Perth & Kinross Outdoor Access Forum Annual Report 2024-25 Provide details of the monies that go to SUSTRANS, more specifically around the Tier 1 and Tier 2 funding for active travel throughout the area and whether this could be used for core paths / rights of way etc and if so, how much did Perth and Kinross receive and where has the money been allocated. Update provided by Michael Findlay, Active Travel & UTC Engineer forwarded to Committee Members via email on 29 January 2026. Michael Findlay COMPLETE 18 February 2026. 11. 10 November 2025 Item 5 Perth & Kinross Outdoor Access Forum Annual Report 2024-25 Provide statistical details on the case work and how issues are resolved and the timeframes involved. Update provided by Dave Stubbs, Greenspace Co- ordinator forwarded to Committee Members via email on 9 February 2026. Dave Stubbs COMPLETE 18 February 2026. 4 Page 9 of 86
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change and Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 18 February 2026 Report Title: The Perth and Kinross Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2031. Report Number: 26/45 Report Author: Pete Leonard, Climate Change and Zero Waste Manager and Angela Harris, Sustainable Development Officer Organisational Lead: Fraser Crofts, Strategic Lead for Environment and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 The purpose of this Report is to inform Members of the outcome of the public consultation on the Council’s draft Circular Economy Strategy, and to present a revised, final version of the strategy and associated action plan for approval. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendations 3. Background/Context 4. Main Issues 5. Proposals 6. Conclusion 7. Impact Value Assessment 8. Appendices 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Approves the Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan 2.2 Notes the governance arrangements and the intention to provide annual progress updates to Committee 5 Page 11 of 86
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3. Background/Context 3.1 A report to the CC&S meeting 20 August 2025 provided Members with a final update on the 2010-2025 Waste Management Plan. The report also set out forthcoming legislative and policy changes that are likely to arise from the Scottish Government’s Circular Economy Strategy and Routemap. The paper proposed that a new, five-year, strategy was required in response to these national changes, to ensure that the Council was fully informed of the potential impacts and to prepare for implementation. 3.2 A proposed Circular Economy Strategy consultation document was approved by Committee to go to public consultation. 3.3 Extensive engagement took place with various internal and external stakeholders including business representatives, local communities, and organisational partners. An online Public Consultation was conducted in September and October 2025 and an in-person consultation workshop was undertaken in November 2025 for business and industry stakeholders. A Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping report for the strategy was sent to the Consultation Authorities (SEPA, NatureScot and Historic Environment Scotland) in September 2025. Feedback from all consultation events was taken into account to shape the final version of the strategy. 3.4 91 responses were received online . Analysis of the responses is set out below: 67% of responses were from women . 68% of responses were from people aged over 50. 0% of responses were received from people aged 24 or under. Total combined views of explanatory video - 3,460 (reach 2,346) . 17,370 Facebook views . All wards represented (top 3 - Highland, Perth City Centre, Strathmore). In agreement/support of: - Vision – 83% . - Strategic Priorities – 72% . - Delivery Areas – 80%. 3.5 General observations from the feedback were: Clearer and simpler communication . Climate scepticism . Clearer goal setting . Better explanation of links to other policy areas (e.g. poverty, equality, accessibility) . More explicit focus on behaviour change . More upstream focus . Council sphere of influence. Page 12 of 86
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4. Main Issues 4.1 The Perth and Kinross Circular Economy Strategy will inform the future transformation of the Council’s waste and recycling operations and associated infrastructure. It will impact on major contracts expenditure and will support sustainable economic development activity with local businesses. 4.2 Whilst a number of national policy changes have been signalled, there is as yet little detail on many of the initiatives. These are still being worked through and will develop over time. The Scottish Government and Zero Waste Scotland are investing in research and analysis and are engaging Local Authorities in a process of collaborative policy development and practical design of solutions. 4.3 Consequently, various new national policies will come into force during the next five years, some of which may be underpinned by legislation. The Council will need to respond with its own policies and practices as the national position becomes clearer, and it is envisaged that further reports to Committee will be required. The strategy/action plan itself will evolve over time. 4.4 Key areas for attention include: Policy Impact Implementation Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility Additional funding for LA waste and recycling services. Independent assessment of LA performance Now, with continued development of model and processes over the next 24 months New code of practice for waste and recycling collection services Possible segregation of food/green waste Possible end to rural food waste exemption Possible kerbside textile collections Possible kerbside Waste Electronic and Electrical Equipment collections More standardisation of services, e.g. bin colour, size, frequency of collection National targets (possibly statutory) Early 2027 Deposit Return Scheme Increased recycling rates for included materials Better quality of materials for reprocessing October 2027 Page 13 of 86
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Reduced litter and associated clean-up costs New employment opportunities Significant changes to the composition and tonnages of kerbside recycling container mix – may impact routing or collection frequency. Financial impact – pluses and minuses UK Emissions Trading Scheme Over the longer term, may assist in the transfer to more sustainable materials In the short to medium term is likely to increase cost of disposal considerably – likely between £1-2m per annum for PKC 2028 5. Proposals 5.1 The proposed Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan can be found in Appendix A of this report. 5.2 The strategy aligns with the following Corporate Priorities: Tackling climate change and supporting sustainable places. Developing a resilient, stronger and greener local economy. Tackling poverty. Working in partnership with communities. 5.3 National policy drivers include: Scotland’s Zero Waste plan (2010). Scotland’s Climate Change Plan (2020). A Draft Circular Economy Strategy for Scotland (2025). Scotland’s Circular Economy and Waste Route Map to 2030 (2024). Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (2022). Page 14 of 86
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5.4 The vision for the strategy is: 5.5 We will measure our success in delivering our vision and goals by the following outcomes: We will have complied with legislation. We will have reduced waste and improved reuse and recycling. We will have reduced carbon emissions and the environmental impact of our waste. We will have saved money – for the Council and across society . We will have supported people to make the right choices and made it easier for them to use our services. We will have created new and/or more resilient businesses and connected them to each other and to communities. 5.6 The strategy sets out five main priorities: 1. Reduce and Reuse. 2. Modernise Recycling. 3. Decarbonise Disposal. 4. Strengthening the Circular Economy. 5. Behaviour Change. 5.7 Each of these priorities is examined through the lens of four delivery themes: 1. Waste and Recycling Services. 2. Other Council Services. 3. Consumers and Society. 4. Business and Industry. 5.8 Challenges and opportunities were assessed, and an Action and Delivery Plan was created setting out actions for the short term (within a year), medium term (within 2-3 years), and long term (4+ years). 5.9 A designated action lead will be responsible for overseeing the review and reporting process of their action(s). The Council’s internal Circular Economy Page 15 of 86
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Strategy Working Group will provide governance and oversight, ensuring that all relevant aspects are addressed during the reporting process. Regular communication and collaboration between stakeholders will be crucial to effectively execute the Action Plan and drive progress towards our objectives. 5.10 A robust monitoring and evaluation framework will be put in place, with a set of indicators for each of the six strategic outcomes together with RAG status action tracking. Initial measures for the strategic outcomes are set out in the table below: Outcome Measure Current Figure We will have complied with legislation No breaches Zero We will have reduced waste and improved reuse and recycling Current recycling rate(s) – Waste Data Flow Reuse figures – Waste Data Flow 50.9% recycling rate (2024) Reuse: 394T = 0.54% of total waste (2024) We will have reduced carbon emissions and the environmental impact of our waste Waste CO2 equivalent- Waste Data Flow 131,661 TCO2e; 0.85 TCO2e per person (2024) We will have saved money – for the Council and across society Income from the sale of recyclates Data from selected materials management interventions Data from Reuse organisations where available £879,191 (2024/25) As projects arise To be determined We will have supported people to make the right choices and made it easier for them to use our services Number of large-scale campaigns Number of in-person events Number of people engaged with at face-to- face events Number of people engaging with social media- views, shares, followers Number of assisted lifts Number of additional bins – e.g. for medical or childcare reasons Will gather data for 2026 We will have created new and/or more resilient businesses and New start-ups in CE sector Number of jobs/new jobs in CE sector (to be developed) 23 (2025) Page 16 of 86
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connected them to each other and to communities. Business survival rates in CE sector Number of business to business and business to community networks (to be developed) 5.11 It is the intention to provide formal annual updates to Committee. 6. Conclusion 6.1 The waste and recycling industry is entering a period of significant change. The proposed Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan will ensure that the Council is fully informed of changes in policy and legislation, understands potential impacts, and is prepared for implementation in good time. 7. Impact and Value Assessment Perth & Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy 2021 - 2026 8. Appendices 8.1 Appendix A – Perth and Kinross Circular Economy Strategy and Action Plan. Page 17 of 86
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Appendix 1 Perth and Kinross Council Circular Economy Strategy 2026-2031 Perth & Kinross Council February 2026 5 Page 19 of 86
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Contents Welcome 1. Introduction 2. How will the Strategy be delivered? 3. What action will be taken? 4. Implementation and Monitoring Glossary Appendix 1 – CES Action and Delivery Plan Page 20 of 86
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1 Welcome Welcome to the first Circular Economy Strategy (CES) for Perth and Kinross Council. The CES has developed in response to the Scottish Government’s vision to ‘deliver a fully circular economy in Scotland by 2045, driven by responsible consumption, responsible production, and maximising value from waste and energy’. It sets out our priorities and action towards a Circular Economy for Perth and Kinross for the period 2026-2031, with an accompanying action and delivery plan (Appendix 1). What do we want to achieve? Our vision for the CES is: We will measure our success in delivering our vision and goals by the following outcomes: We will have complied with legislation We will have reduced waste and improved reuse and recycling We will have reduced carbon emissions and the environmental impact of our waste In Perth and Kinross, we aim to build communities where everyone understands how to use resources responsibly and reduce waste. We take pride in making thoughtful choices that support the environment and improve our quality of life, by protecting nature, growing the economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our communities. Together, we are working toward a greener and more sustainable future. Page 21 of 86
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2 We will have saved money, for the Council and across society We will have supported people to make the right choices and made it easier for them to use our services We will have created new and/or more resilient businesses and connected them to each other and to communities. Who did we speak to when developing the Strategy? The CES was prepared with input and feedback across Council Services. Extensive engagement initiatives have been conducted with various internal and external stakeholders including business representatives, local communities, and organisational partners. An online Public Consultation was conducted in September and October 2025 and an in-person consultation workshop was undertaken in November 2025 for business and industry stakeholders. A Strategic Environmental Assessment Scoping report for the CES was sent to the Consultation Authorities (SEPA, NatureScot and Historic Environment Scotland) in September 2025. Feedback from all consultation events was taken into account to shape this final version of the strategy. Page 22 of 86
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3 Introduction What is a Circular Economy? We are using more and more raw materials from the earth to make things that we may only use once before throwing them away. This approach, known as the Linear Economy, impacts our environment, personal health, overall economy and our wallets. A circular economy approach offers us an alternative by looking at our behaviour in relation to materials and products we use. It reduces the need to buy and consume more things by finding ways to keep existing materials and products in use for as long as possible. This also helps to minimise waste. Figure 1. Linear Economy vs Circular Economy Page 23 of 86
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4 Why shift towards a Circular Economy? Each person in Scotland uses about 8 tonnes of materials per year — more than twice the sustainable limit. In 2022, only 1.3% of the resources used in Scotland were cycled back into the economy, with over 98% of Scotland’s material use coming from new (virgin) resources. 80% of Scotland’s carbon footprint comes from making, using, and throwing away products. Over 85% of product-related impacts come from manufacture and transportation People in the UK have £1.6 billion worth of unworn clothes in their wardrobes — that’s 1 in 4 items not being used. Textiles are the most damaging type of waste thrown away by households in Scotland – accounting for nearly a third of all household waste carbon footprints. Scottish households waste food worth £440 per year on average. The circular economy has the potential to create over 500,000 new jobs across the UK. What behaviours do we need to change? For existing products Avoiding single-use items (such as disposable cups or plastic bags) and choosing reusable or refillable products. Fixing broken items instead of throwing them away. Donating or selling things you no longer need. Buying second-hand when possible. Using sharing schemes (e.g. tool libraries, car clubs). Borrowing instead of buying when you only need something short-term. Recycling and sorting household and business waste correctly. Page 24 of 86
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5 For new products Supporting products made from recycled materials, and that are durable, repairable and designed to last (easy to repair). Avoiding over-packaged goods and supporting businesses that offer reduced and/or sustainable packaging. Considering the full life of a product before buying. Supporting circular design and innovation. Working together for a Circular Economy Consumers and society have a huge role to play in the move towards a circular economy by adopting these behaviours. Although many people are becoming more aware of how they consume things and are trying to choose more sustainably options, choices are still often unavailable. Local businesses and industries have a large part to play in adopting circular business models that offer a wider choice to the consumer – for example, offering products as a service through leasing or subscription schemes, promoting sharing platforms to reuse and share existing products, or take-back programs to encourage the of return products for refurbishing and recycling. A successful circular economy can only be achieved by working across all sectors of society – including the Council, individuals and communities, businesses and industries. Why do we need a Circular Economy Strategy? Our existing Waste Management Plan finished at the end of 2025. The plan has led to many improvements in managing and recycling waste across Perth and Kinross over the last 15 years - including improved recycling rates and reduced levels of non- recycled waste. However, certain waste areas – such as food, textile and construction waste - still have a long way to go. With this in mind, and the national focus on circularity of waste, a Circular Economy Strategy for Perth and Kinross offers the opportunity to combine established Page 25 of 86
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6 recycling practices with action that rethinks the way we produce, use and consume things. This strategy will provide a framework for communities, individuals and businesses to use new technology, new ideas and new skills to make the changes we need, in the way we live and work. How does the Strategy align with National, Regional, and Local Strategies and Policies? Policy/Strategy Impact on Circular Economy Scotland’s Zero Waste Plan (2010) Recognised that a zero waste Scotland has an important role in helping to achieve the targets set in the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009 Set the following specific targets including: recycling 70% of all waste by 2025 a ban on biodegradable waste to landfill by 2025. no more than 5% of waste going to landfill by 2025. Scotland’s Climate Change Plan (2020) The Plan sets out a vision for a Circular Scotland and identifies a range of actions needed to ensure Scotland meets its duties under the Climate Change Act. These cover the following related areas: Building the Circular Economy Driving down food waste Reducing waste sent to landfill Improving waste data Reducing emissions from closed landfill sites Promoting efficiency of energy from waste plants, Encouraging reprocessing investment and preventing waste Page 26 of 86
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7 A Draft Circular Economy Strategy for Scotland (2025) The draft strategy outlines how the Scottish Government plans to work with businesses, charities, the public sector and a broad coalition of stakeholders to make the whole economy circular and bring jobs and opportunities for the people of Scotland. Scotland’s circular economy and waste route map to 2030 (2024) The route map identifies the priorities to 2030 that will help Scotland to progress to a circular economy and maximise the positive impact of the Circular Economy (Scotland) Act 2024 for communities across Scotland. Scotland’s National Strategy for Economic Transformation (2022) Identifies the Circular Economy as an area of new market opportunity for the wellbeing economy - ‘generating new, well- paid jobs from a just transition to net zero - where resources are kept in high-value use, creating new market, innovation and job opportunities that will be key to achieving our targets for net zero and nature’. This will help with a Community Wealth Building (CWB) approach that promotes local economic development through more productive and innovative businesses, industries, regions, communities and public services Procurement Reform Act (2014) Includes a requirement for contracting authorities to consider how they can improve economic, social and environmental wellbeing through regulated procurement and to act in a way to secure this. Page 27 of 86
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8 How will the Strategy be delivered? Priorities for the Strategy To help us reach our vision and goals, we are focusing on five main priorities in our Circular Economy Strategy (CES) for Perth and Kinross. These priorities will guide our actions and help us make real progress. Priority 1. Reduce and Reuse Work with our residents and businesses to change patterns of production, consumption and disposal Improve circularity of the Tayside Food System to promote local, healthy eating and reduce food waste and food poverty Reduce textile waste Ensure Council services, including schools, model best practice to lead by example Priority 2. Modernise Recycling Modernise household recycling and reuse services to maximise performance and meet evolving needs, in a fair and inclusive way Support businesses and commercial premises to reduce waste and maximise recycling Priority 3. Decarbonise Disposal Understand the best environmental outcomes for specific wastes Ensure there is an appropriate capacity to manage waste Improve environmental outcomes for waste through innovation Support the incentivisation of decarbonising waste Priority 4. Strengthening the Circular Economy Set the strategic direction and act as a regional catalyst for change Page 28 of 86
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9 Grow the enabling environment to support and attract circular businesses Encourage circular construction practices Coordinate action across cross-cutting areas and robustly monitor, evaluate and report progress Priority 5. Behaviour Change Encourage consumers and organisations to adopt circular behaviours Demonstrate how people can save money by engaging in reuse and repair activities Highlight the environmental and financial impact of poor waste management practices and behaviours. Page 29 of 86
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10 Delivery Areas for the Strategy To make the Circular Economy Strategy (CES) work, the Council has chosen four key areas where it can lead or influence. These areas will work together to take action and support the four main priorities in different ways to help make real changes in how we live, work, and manage waste. Area 1. Waste and Recycling Operations This includes waste services the Council runs or contracts out, like household and business bin collections, recycling centres and reuse facilities. Area 2. Council Services This covers different parts of the Council, such as buying goods (procurement), community food growing, energy and buildings, roads, schools, and healthcare services. Area 3. Consumers and Society This looks at how people and communities use products and services in their daily lives - it includes areas like food, housing, transport, healthcare, and communication. Area 4. Business and Industry This focuses on local businesses in areas like energy, farming, water, waste, tourism, and hospitality In many cases the delivery areas will work with and across each other to deliver action with varying levels of impact (Figure 2.). Page 30 of 86
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11 Figure 2. Delivery Area level of impact on Strategic Priorities Delivery Area 1 – Consumers and Society This area looks at how people and communities use products and services in their daily lives - it includes areas like food, housing, transport, healthcare, and communication. What are the challenges for Consumers and Society? Food poverty and food waste – there is lots of great community-led work, but food waste and food poverty are still big problems. Unsustainable behaviours – fast fashion is one example of how we buy and throw away too much. These habits are now commonplace and greener options are often hard to find or afford. Recycling education - many people do not know how useful some materials can be if reused and there is confusion about where recycling and waste ends up. New residents are often confused about what to do with waste. Page 31 of 86
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12 Fly-Tipping - illegal dumping of waste is a growing problem in Perth and Kinross. What are the opportunities for Consumers and Society? Existing community networks - there is a strong network of community reuse organisations, now working together through Climate Connect to take action for nature, food, energy, transport and zero waste as well as the local Climate Café Network. Communications and engagement – encouraging people participate in initiatives and events that promote second hand purchasing and repair e.g. Share Repair Aware Week. Community awareness and willingness - many people in the community want to make sustainable choices, especially when it is affordable and easy to do. The market for preloved clothing is growing and there is increasing awareness of the inequality/human rights issues associated with ‘disposable’ clothing. Delivery Area 2 – Business and Industry This area focuses on working together to support and attract circular businesses, with additional focus on construction, tourism and hospitality. What are the challenges for Business and Industry? Understanding - many businesses don’t fully understand what a circular economy means or how it could benefit them. Resources and Support - most local businesses are small and do not have extra staff or time to explore new ideas. It’s also hard for them to access money to try new products or processes. Food and hospitality - not everyone knows about food sharing and redistribution systems. Strict rules about food dates can stop good food from being shared in time. Construction - there are few rewards for builders to repair or reuse buildings instead of knocking them down. New buildings and houses are rarely designed to be taken apart and reused later. Page 32 of 86
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13 What are the opportunities for Business and Industry? Established partnership working - there are solid relationships with experts in the circular economy. Projects and locations already show how circular economy principles work in real life. These can help attract more businesses and investment. Agri-sector engagement - long-standing ties with James Hutton Institute and other agricultural leaders can be used to get more farmers and agri-businesses involved. The Good Food Nation development is another new engagement route. Local best practice - Perth and Kinross has many great examples to learn from – including manufacturers, food redistribution agencies, and recycling initiatives. Study Insights – a recent study highlights opportunities that could be applied across Perth and Kinross, for example in using leftover fruit and potato waste, making starch from by-products, recovering and reusing plastics, reducing food waste across the supply chain, and improving sustainability in construction and buildings. Perth and Kinross Landing Strip – an online space created by the Council to support exchange of ideas around circular materials, remanufacturing, reuse and repurposing, green farming and food production, to drive large scale circular economy projects in Perth and Kinross. Delivery Area 3 – Waste and Recycling Services Waste and Recycling Operations includes services provided by the Council directly, such as household and business waste and recycling collections and reuse facilities; and those we contract to other service providers, particularly in the recycling and waste processing sector. What are the challenges for Waste and Recycling Services? Investment - big recycling and reuse projects need lots of money and space to get started. Uncertainties in new laws and policies coming in the next 1–3 years make it harder to plan ahead and invest with confidence and the Council has limited funds to invest in large projects. Page 33 of 86
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14 Competition among reuse organisations - even though reuse groups work well together, they still have to compete for materials to reuse and funding to run their projects, which can make it harder for them to grow and succeed. Waste awareness and engagement – there are variable levels of engagement with recycling services, particularly for food waste. We could recycle more items but not everybody follows recycling rules and a study of our recycling bins shows they are often contaminated with the wrong items. Fly-tipping (illegal dumping) is increasing. Procurement Obstacles - tendering on price alone can make it difficult to secure local suppliers. Recycling and waste management - bin systems inside buildings can be inconsistent, and some plastics are hard to recycle. What are the opportunities for Waste and Recycling Services? Smart technology can improve services like bin collections, giving live updates to households and businesses and showing when bins are contaminated (wrong items inside). New technology and processes – can support new tools that can turn hard-to- recycle plastics into useful materials. This helps cut down on burning waste and creates value. Promoting the waste hierarchy - acting early to avoid waste in the first place and focusing on reducing plastic waste before it becomes rubbish. Extended Producer Responsibility for Packaging (pEPR funding) - this funding will help improve recycling services and make needed upgrades. Deposit Return Scheme – has the potential to improve the quality and value of materials being recycled, increase recycling rates and reduce roadside litter. Delivery Area 4 – Other Council Services Council services have a major role in facilitating and promoting a shift to a circular economy. This area covers different parts of the Council, such as buying goods Page 34 of 86
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15 (procurement), community food growing, energy and buildings, roads, schools, and healthcare services. What are the challenges for Other Council Services? Skills and Knowledge - Some Council teams do not fully understand circular economy ideas or how they can help. Many also lack technical knowledge and industry contacts to spot opportunities. Material Data Gaps - The Council does not have a clear picture of how much material it uses or throws away or the potential for transfer between teams Storage Problems - The Council does not have big enough storage spaces or the right licences to hold items like soil, furniture, or asphalt between uses. It is also uncertain who is responsible (Council or partner organisations) for keeping stored materials safe and in good condition. Financial Pressures - Budgets are tight, so individual service teams often need to choose cheaper items that do not last long, instead of better-quality items that cost more. Need for Clear Guidance - there is no detailed guidance to help Council service teams buy sustainably or avoid single-use items, especially in construction projects. What are the opportunities for Other Council Services? Sustainable Procurement - With the Council’s new Sustainable Procurement Policy, there are opportunities to drive change through Contracts - for example, including the impact of transport emissions in waste contracts can help reduce emissions, making locally based suppliers more appealing. Good Food Nation – a Good Food Strategy and Action Plan will be created by 2026. bringing together different food-related projects and partnerships. Sharing Good Practice - the Council can lead by example in choosing greener options in construction contracts, and this can help influence industry by sharing what works well. Cost Savings – saving money through sharing, reusing, and redistributing materials can help save money. Page 35 of 86
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16 Implementing and Monitoring the Strategy What action will be taken? A Circular Economy Strategy (CES) Action and Delivery Plan has been developed, focusing on the four key delivery areas mentioned earlier. It includes actions for: Short term (within 1 year) Medium term (2–3 years) Long term (4+ years) Actions based on the opportunities and challenges shared earlier have been developed to help deliver the CES. The CES Action and Delivery Plan is detailed in Appendix 1 below. How will action be implemented? To implement the CES Action and Delivery Plan, a designated action lead will be responsible for overseeing the review and reporting process of their action(s). The Council’s internal Circular Economy Strategy Working Group will provide guidance and oversight, ensuring that all relevant aspects are addressed during the reporting process. Regular communication and collaboration between stakeholders will be crucial to effectively execute the Action Plan and drive progress towards our objectives. Governance A governance structure will be established to oversee the implementation and evaluation of the Action Plan, with roles and responsibilities clearly defined for all stakeholders involved. The CES Working Group will serve as the primary governing body, providing strategic direction and guidance, while the Council and relevant committees will be responsible for executing large scale changes. How will we monitor and evaluate our performance? Page 36 of 86
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17 To ensure the effective implementation and assessment of the CES Action and Delivery Plan, a robust monitoring and evaluation framework will be developed once the CES has been approved by Committee. A set of SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Target) objectives and indicators will be used to analyse and annually report progress. The following measures will be used to assess the overall success of the CES. Outcome Measure Current Figure We will have complied with legislation No breaches Zero Current recycling rate(s) – Waste Data Flow 50.9% recycling rate (2024) We will have reduced waste and improved reuse and recycling Reuse figures – Waste Data Flow Reuse = 394T = 0.54% of total waste (2024) We will have reduced carbon emissions and the environmental impact of our waste Waste CO2 equivalent - Waste Data Flow 131,661 TCO2e; 0.85 TCO2e per person (2024) Income from the sale of recyclates £879,191 (2024/25) Data from selected materials management interventions As projects arise We will have saved money – for the Council and across society Data from Reuse organisations where available To be determined Number of large-scale campaigns Number of people engaged with at face-to-face events Number of in-person events Number of people engaging with social media- views, shares, followers We will have supported people to make the right choices and made it easier for them to use our services Will gather data for 2026 Page 37 of 86
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18 No. of assisted lifts No. of additional bins – e.g. for medical or childcare reasons No. of CE related businesses 23 New start-ups in CE sector No. of jobs/new jobs in CE sector (to be developed) Business survival rates in CE sector We will have created new and/or more resilient businesses and connected them to each other and to communities. No. business to business and business to community networks (to be developed) Page 38 of 86
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19 Glossary CES (Circular Economy Strategy) - This document which presents the Council’s strategic approach to circular economy Passivhaus - The Passivhaus Standard is a way of designing buildings to use very little energy for heating or cooling. Passivhaus helps to both reduce operational resource need and promote durability of design. More widely the design specifications, repairability, maintenance and longevity of materials are all important considerations. pEPR (Planned Extended Producer Responsibility) A policy approach where producers are given significant responsibility—financial and/or physical—for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products, especially packaging. The Council currently receives an annual sum for dealing with packaging not handled by the producers. DRS (Deposit Return Scheme) - A recycling system where consumers pay a small deposit on drinks containers, which is refunded when the container is returned for recycling. WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) - waste which is controlled under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2013, which must be collected separately to general waste. Page 39 of 86
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i Appendix 1 – CES Action and Delivery Plan ID Strategic Action Strategic Objective Delivery Area(s) Ease of implementation Cost effectiveness Responsible lead Timescale Food waste 1 Roll out more food waste hubs, as part of the Food Waste Action Plan Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy High Climate Change and Zero Waste team Jun 26 - Mar 27 2 Develop baseline data of knowledge, participation and barriers to reducing food waste Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy High Climate change and Zero Waste team Mar 25- Mar 26 3 Develop a Good Food Partnership and prepare a Good Food Strategy & Action Plan for Perth & Kinross Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By Dec 27 4 Develop a Food Waste Action Plan alongside an awareness campaign to show the financial and carbon value of food Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Easy High Climate change and Zero Waste team Underway Page 40 of 86
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ii Textile waste 5 Develop a Textiles campaign to reduce consumption, reuse and repair of textiles and recycle correctly at end-of-life Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By May 26 Litter and fly tipping 6 Design and deliver a litter and fly-tipping strategy and action plan to reduce the number of fly-tipping incidents by promoting special uplifts and other support mechanisms; raising the awareness of householders of their legal Duty of Care obligations; and enhancing enforcement activities. Reduce and reuse Waste and recycling services Easy Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Feb 26 - Feb 27 7 Conduct an audit of the condition, placement and usage of litter bins throughout Perth and Kinross to ensure best use of resources and advise future replacement programmes. Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By March 2027 Page 41 of 86
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iii Waste and recycling operations 8 Explore kerbside collections of additional materials such as small WEEE and/or batteries Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By Oct 2027 9 Development of the Commercialisation Transformation Programme to provide better recycling services to businesses and skip services to PKC residents at reasonable prices whilst pushing for reuse and recycle Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Jan 2026 to June 2027 Digital innovation and technology 10 Make improvements to online services for residents & businesses and improve internal efficiency - Digital Transformation Programme Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team By Sept 2027 11 Expansion/development of in-cab technologies Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team Ongoing development 12 Explore the usage of AI to improve services such as an AI app advising what bin to place materials in when scanned Behaviour Change Consumers and society Easy/ Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team 2028 onwards Page 42 of 86
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iv 13 Develop a digital platform to highlight resources that can be shared or reused across Council services Reduce and reuse Council services Easy Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team May 26 - Dec 26 14 Invest in a digital reuse platform to link businesses / public sector / third sector / reuse organisations to share unwanted items and monitor associated carbon saving Reduce and reuse Consumers and Society/Business and Industry Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team May 26 - Dec 26 Communication and education 15 Provide information on bins in the form of a welcome pack for new residents that can be issued by estate agents/landlords, Council Tax, non-domestic rates, etc. Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Easy/ Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Dec 26 16 Continue Recycle Right awareness across multiple channels Behaviour Change Consumers and society Easy/ Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Ongoing during the life of the plan 17 Adopt video and social media communications to better connect with the public - for example to demonstrate where their waste and recycling goes, improve understanding of the fees/costs of processing waste, the risks of fire from batteries etc. Behaviour Change Consumers and society Easy/ Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Ongoing during the life of the plan Page 43 of 86
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v 18 Development and implementation of a Resource Management Plan for Education & Children’s Services to improve the reduction and recycling of waste, energy efficiency and environmental messaging within schools Reduce and reuse Council services Difficult High Climate change and Zero Waste team and Education By Sept 2027 19 Promote learning for sustainability and create fun/challenging STEM subject initiatives to encourage young people to improve school recycling Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team and Education By Sept 2027 20 Develop communications & behaviour change campaigns for the Business & Industry Sector, including the promotion of awards and accreditation Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Easy Medium Economic Development Team Ongoing from Sept 26 Research and development 21 Commission a circular scan of PKC activities to identify opportunities for impactful circular solutions Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By March 2027 22 Commission a Perth & Kinross Circular Scan to establish a baseline for the Circular Economy Route Map and identify priority sectors for intervention (with particular focus on the Agricultural Sector) Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Moderate Medium Economic Development Team Sept 26 – Dec 26 Page 44 of 86
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vi 23 Develop and launch the Circular Economy Landing Strip (Brand name Clean Growth Axis) – a platform and support system integrating PKC, relevant statutory bodies, funding organisations, and private sector to drive large scale circular economy projects into Perth and Kinross Strengthening the circular economy Business and Industry Difficult High Economic Development Team March 26 24 Support the development of Project beacon – a Tay Cities Deal project aimed at removing hydrocarbons from residual and recycling waste streams. Decarbonise Disposal Business and Industry Difficult High Economic Development Team Jan 26 - Dec 27 25 Explore the creation of a goods depot for use by different PKC projects - could this be an initial employment opportunity for upskilling (Castle Huntly) Reduce and reuse Council services Moderate Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team By June 2027 Legislation and policy 26 Prepare for forthcoming legislative and policy changes by engaging in research, consultations and co-creation workshops for the following: 26a Digital waste tracking Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team By Oct 26 Page 45 of 86
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vii 26b Waste and recycling code of practice Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team Apr 25-Mar 27 26c Organic waste (food and green waste) Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team Apr 25-Mar 27 26d Deposit Return System Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team By Oct 27 26e Regional hubs and/or networks for construction material reuse Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team By Dec 27 26f Emissions Trading Scheme Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team By Dec 28 27 Maximise opportunities to influence governments and institutions to secure inward investment in Circular Economy projects Strengthening the Circular Economy Business and Industry Difficult Low Economic Development Team Ongoing during the life of the plan Sustainable procurement Page 46 of 86
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viii 28 Review PKC procurement processes to embed circular economy principles to reduce consumption of products and materials, for example reducing single use items and specifying sustainable construction criteria Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Procurement Team Ongoing – each specification will be reviewed prior to issuing tender 29 Develop category strategies for high emission categories that consider climate change Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Procurement Team Subject to resource being made available 30 Develop guidance and training to enable buyers to develop contract documents that consider climate change requirements. Strengthening the circular economy Council services Moderate Medium Procurement Team Subject to resource being made available Funding and investment 31 Invest pEPR funding in a range of improvement actions including improved infrastructure, frequency of service, education and behaviour change campaigns, support for community reuse organisations and improving data flow and business insights. Modernise recycling Waste and recycling services Moderate High Climate change and Zero Waste team May 25 - Nov 27 32 Asset Management Review of Waste & Recycling Infrastructure - to establish investment requirements to support a sustainable (monetary & carbon) operational asset base in line with the approach set out in Modernise recycling Council services Difficult High Property Services Team Ongoing during the life of the plan Page 47 of 86
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ix the Councils approved Property Asset Management Strategy Page 48 of 86
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x Partnership working 33 Continue and enhance partnership working with Climate Connect and reuse organisations, and map Perth and Kinross Reuse Network activities to support information sharing network across the sector Reduce and reuse Consumers and society Easy Medium Climate change and Zero Waste team Ongoing during the life of the plan 34 Develop Business & Industry advice & support networks, building on the Clean Growth Axis (with particular focus on SMEs) Decarbonise disposal Business and Industry Difficult High Economic Development Team Ongoing from Sept 26 35 Engage with the business, academic and employability sectors to stimulate circular economy skills and employment opportunities Strengthening the Circular Economy Business and Industry Difficult Low Economic Development Team Ongoing during the life of the plan Page 49 of 86
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Our vision is a Perth and Kinross where everyone can live life well, free from poverty and inequality ___________________________________________________________________ Committee or Board: Climate Change & Sustainability Committee Date of Meeting: 18 February 2026 Report Title: Tree Planting Policy Report Number: 26/46 46 Report Author: Magnus Morgan/Calum Bachell – Community Greenspace Organisational Lead: Elaine Ritchie – Strategic Lead Housing & Communities ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Purpose 1.1 This report sets out the proposal for a Council wide Tree Planting Policy which will become part of the Council’s Tree Management Strategy which also contains the approved Tree Management Policy and Ash Dieback Strategy The Policy’s aims are to increase tree canopy cover where possible, improve biodiversity, mitigate climate change and enhance public spaces through appropriate and sustainable planting. 1.2 Sections 1. Purpose 2. Recommendations 3. Background/Main Issues 4. Impact and Value Assessment 5. Appendices 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Committee: 2.1 Approves the Tree Planting Policy that will be the first formal document covering tree planting throughout Council owned, managed and maintained land, so that existing funding is used efficiently following recommended methods and in appropriate locations. 6 Page 51 of 86
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3. Background/Main Issues 3.1 Historic Information/Context 3.1.1 Trees provide essential habitat for wildlife and maintain biodiversity in the face of increasing threats from climate change and other human activities. In addition, they provide improved air quality, flood mitigation, erosion control and shade provision as well providing health and well-being benefits to the public. 3.1.2 Ash Dieback and other tree diseases combined with increasingly severe weather events, have led to a significant loss in tree cover which will need to be replaced. Naturally aging tree populations will also need planned replacement. New planting projects to expand carbon sequestration and canopy cover will benefit greatly from a well-defined process. While native species will be prioritised, non-native species are also considered where providing additional ecological resilience and/or other benefits to biodiversity, climate change, while maintaining Perth & Kinross’s reputation as Big Tree Country. 3.1.3 Until now there has been no formal structured Tree Planting Policy. This Policy allows for consistent long-term planning and maintenance of trees on Council land. There are many examples of trees of the wrong type being planted in the wrong locations which go on to cause problems for neighbours and even physical damage to surfaces and structures. They can grow too large for the locations selected and lead to complaints which can be costly to address. Trees should not be located where they ultimately compromise the function of the spaces they are in or adjacent to or require remedial trimming or felling. 3.1.4 The Tree Planting Policy has been developed to provide a comprehensive system including planning, site selection, species selection, planting method, recording, establishment and maintenance based around having the “Right Tree in the Right Place”. It covers planting and aftercare specific to the varied site characteristics within Perth & Kinross. 3.2 Options Available to Elected Members/Board members 3.2.1 The Committee agrees to adopt the proposed Tree Planting Policy. 3.2.2 The Committee disagrees with the adoption of The Tree Planting Policy and planting continues without consistent or appropriate planting methods. 3.3 Rationale for Recommendations made in Section 2 3.3.1 The proposed Policy offers the first formal set of guidelines for tree planting throughout the Council ensuring that there is an effective and comprehensive system in place. This will complement current management plans and The Forest Plan. Page 52 of 86
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3.3.2 A structured approach to planting will ensure that existing budgets are used in the most efficient manner ensuring maximum survivability of planted stock and reducing the need for the replacement of failed plantings. It will also guide tree planting into the future, so they are an enhancement to solve problems rather than creating any. This should avoid the Council having to deal with many of the tree management issues set out in the Tree Management Policy 3.3.3 Logically staged procedures will ensure that planting activities are correctly recorded, making establishment and maintenance more efficient and allowing the Council to calculate increases in canopy cover more easily. It will also help to guide the appropriate replacement of trees lost in delivering the Council’s Ash Dieback Strategy 4. Impact and Value Assessment Tree Planting Policy Impact and Value Assessment 5. Appendices 5.1 Appendix A – Tree Planting Policy Page 53 of 86
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Tree Planting Policy Community Greenspace Adopted Feb 2026 (tbc) 6 Page 55 of 86
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Contents ▪ Tree Management Strategy 3 ▪ 1.0 Introduction 4 ▪ 2.0 Native and Non-Native Species 6 ▪ 3.0 Choosing the Right Place 8 ▪ 3.1 Recreation Parks 9 ▪ 3.2 Countryside Sites 10 ▪ 3.3 Cemeteries 11 ▪ 3.4 Schools 12 ▪ 3.5 Grow Wild Areas 13 ▪ 3.6 Orchards and Food Growing 14 ▪ 3.7 Green Corridors 15 ▪ 3.8 Residential Areas 16 ▪ 3.9 Streets and Urban Planting 17 ▪ 3.10 Near Buildings & Gardens 18 ▪ 4.0 Planting, Establishment & Maintenance 20 ▪ 4.1 Planting Stock 21 ▪ 4.2 Planting methods 22 ▪ 4.3 Establishment & maintenance 23 ▪ 4.4 Planting Protections Flowchart 25 ▪ 5.0 Memorial Trees 26 ▪ 6.0 Recording Data 27 ▪ 7.0 Volunteering Opportunities 28 ▪ 8.0 Useful links and advice for Council departments 29 ▪ Appendices ▪ Appendix 1 – List of native species to Scotland 30 ▪ Appendix 2 – Sites with management plans 31 ▪ Appendix 3 – BSI standards publications 32 2Page 56 of 86
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The Tree Planting Policy (TPP) forms part of the Council’s Tree Management Strategy (TMS), which covers the management of trees on all Council owned or managed land. The TMS also contains the Tree Management Policy (TMP) which describes the Council’s approach to existing trees, and the Ash Dieback & Roadside Trees Strategy (ADS) which outlines the Council’s response to Ash Dieback. The TMS does not provide advice for trees not managed or maintained by the Council, within Conservation Areas, Tree Preservation Orders or wider forestry and woodland management, which is covered by the PKC Forest and Woodland Strategy. The TMS is part of the Council’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan and supports delivery of the Perth and Kinross Forest Plan and site-specific management plans. 3 Tree Management Strategy Ash Dieback Roadside Trees Strategy Ash Dieback & Roadside Trees Strategy Tree Planting Policy Tree Management Policy Tree Management Policy Tree Management Strategy Page 57 of 86
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1.0 Introduction This Policy sets Council-wide standards and procedures for tree planting on all Council-owned Land and is aimed at all Council staff or volunteers planting trees on Council land. A consistent and well- planned approach enables efficient use of available resources to achieve the Council’s aims to improve Biodiversity through increased canopy cover, carbon sequestration and ecological improvements as well as improving public health and wellbeing and the amenity value of our greenspaces. To ensure that the right trees are planted in the right place, this policy provides guidance on appropriate planting stock, technique, protection & maintenance for different locations. Perth and Kinross is proud to be known as Big Tree Country with historic and famous trees throughout the area boasting many champion & specimen trees as well as over 200,000 acres of woodland. Individual trees and woodlands contribute significantly to the enviable character and quality of the countryside and settlements of the area, attracting visitors and investment to Perth & Kinross. Trees have a recognised benefit to public health and wellbeing, offering many benefits that promote mental and physical health and improve quality of life. Time spent in greenspaces and wooded areas has been linked to improved health, reduced stress and trees create a barrier to the noise and sights of built-up environments. These benefits make appropriately placed trees an important element our urban and rural open spaces. Trees are essential in providing habitats for wildlife and maintaining biodiversity, which is under significant threat due to factors such as climate change, development and other human impacts. Worldwide, biodiversity is declining faster globally than at any other time in recorded human history. With climate change and the need to reduce CO2 as the climate warms, trees are playing a vital role in air quality, flood mitigation, erosion control, shade provision and overall health and wellbeing. Trees have an important role to play in sequestering carbon and providing habitat for wildlife, with different species creating ‘niches’ that may be relied on for both fauna and other flora. Increases in extreme weather events and damage to trees from storms as well as diseases such as Ash dieback, have resulted in significant and continued tree loss. Increased tree planting is needed to replace and restore areas that have suffered losses as well as improve canopy cover. Between 2022 and 2025 the Council planted over 6300 trees. 4 To ensure a sustainable future for trees and people Policy vision – Right Tree, Right Place Page 58 of 86
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Introduction cont. Public greenspaces require careful species selection to be fit for the purpose and character of the site they are being used for. Correct species selection is dependent on location, soil type, exposure and biodiversity requirements of the site. Other factors like flood risk, erosion and water safety management are equally as important when looking a species suitability. Many trees grow to an impressive extent and can live for over 100 years. Small trees such as Blackthorn and Crab apple can typically grow up to 10m in height with large trees like Oaks and Ash exceeding 40m. Any new tree planting must be resilient and sustainable in the long term. This policy aims to ensure that the right trees are planted in the right place to provide long-term benefits to communities and our local environment, and to avoid problems arising from trees being planted in unsuitable locations. The Perth & Kinross Forest Plan 2015-2035 is an important guiding document which gives site-specific tree management recommendations, including species composition, for 38 sites that are either predominantly woodlands, or contain large, forested areas. Some sites that the Council manage have site management plans (appendix 2) with specific advice on tree planting and desired species compositions. Recommendations for sites not covered by the Forest Plan or specific site management plans are provided within this Policy. Not every tree is suited to every location. When planting an area, many choices need to be made including whether native or non-native trees will be planted, which specific species will be suitable, what size of tree is desired and what sort of impacts will the different trees have. Planting of all new trees on Council maintained sites must be agreed in advance with or undertaken by the Council’s Community Greenspace Service. The Council have their own plant nursery at Westbank in Perth where a wide variety of native trees and shrubs are grown from locally sourced seeds, saplings and cuttings. This valuable resource gives the Council the ability to grow stock at substantially reduced costs, reduces the carbon footprint from transporting trees and limits the risk of introducing new diseases into the local environment. 5Page 59 of 86
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2.0 Native and Non-Native Species 6 Where appropriate for the site, the Council prioritises the use of native tree species Policy – native species Native species are beneficial for restoring natural habitats and enhancing wildlife & biodiversity. For local planting, native species are generally preferred as they are well-adapted to the local environment, have co-evolved with and support local wildlife and help to preserve our natural heritage. Certain native species will provide a beneficial niche for other native wildlife and may be vital to their survival. Less maintenance is often required for native species, with inherent resilience to certain diseases and a tolerance for the local environmental conditions. Native tree stock is a more cost-effective approach, with native trees being more readily available in local tree nurseries including Westbank in Perth (see 4.1 Planting Stock). Planting projects using external funding may have specific restrictions or requirements for species composition, such as a requirement for native species to be used. Appropriate species must be planned for and considered before funding applications are submitted. A variety of species on any given site is useful to improve ecological resilience and, as the climate changes, the range of species may need to be extended to improve ecological adaption. Some native species may be less suited to new environmental conditions arising from climate change. Non-native trees may be more suitable in such circumstances to add additional resilience to warmer and wetter climates or to fill gaps where disease and pests have decimated native trees. Page 60 of 86
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7 Non-native species may be a preferred option in certain park settings to maintain the character of a site, or for a specific function, such as arboretums, particular visual impact or as part of a conservation project. Non-native trees are acceptable in, and can enhance, sites such as recreational parks, however, they are generally unsuitable for planting in woodlands, countryside sites or in SSSI sites. While both native and non-native species can be suitable for planting, the specific tree species is of particular importance. Invasive non-native trees must be avoided on all sites. These include Ailanthus, Cherry Laurel, False acacia, Leyland cypress and various non-native Poplars. Most non-native species of tree or shrub cannot be planted into the wild (e.g. into countryside sites) under the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (WANE). Planting of Ash and European larch should not take place due to the ongoing disease issues of Ash Dieback and Phytophthora ramorum. A list of suitable native tree species can be found in appendix 1. Native and Non-Native Species cont. Non-native trees may be planted to maintain the character and function of a particular site or location Policy – non-native species Page 61 of 86
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3.0 Choosing the Right Place 8 The Council manage a diverse range of sites with unique characteristics, including countryside sites, recreation parks, cemeteries, green corridors and housing areas. Each type of site requires different considerations when planting trees; therefore, the guidance has been tailored for each site category. Some larger sites may fall into two or more categories (e.g. MacRosty Park in Crieff contains a woodland area, a recreation park and grow wild areas). The best practice will be dependent on which area within the site is being considered for planting. For replacement tree planting where trees cannot be planted in the same location, planting should be considered within suitable nearby sites. In this section: 3.1 Recreation Parks greenspaces set out for recreation & play 3.2 Countryside & Woodland Sites greenspaces in rural and forested environments 3.3 Cemeteries churchyards and cemeteries 3.4 School Grounds play areas and open space in school grounds 3.5 Grow Wild Areas open spaces designated as ‘Grow Wild’ areas 3.6 Orchards and Food Growing fruit trees in public open spaces and orchards 3.7 Green Corridors narrow connective greenspaces and routes between areas 3.8 Residential Areas open space within residential developments 3.9 Street & Urban Planting urban and built-up environments 3.10 Next to buildings trees close to buildings, gardens and utilities Page 62 of 86
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3.1 Recreation Parks Recreation parks provide spaces for the use and enjoyment of people for active recreation including sports, particularly in urban areas. Formal and informal active recreation improves physical and mental health and wellbeing and should be enhanced by but not dominated by trees. Where parks have specific management or masterplans (see appendix 3), trees will be planted following the guidelines within those plans. If there are no overall management or masterplans, the character and function of the park will be considered in terms of tree location, type and ultimate size. Some parks may already have sufficient or excessive tree cover for their function and only replacements for trees removed should be considered. The use of planting plans ensures the character and spaces created in parks are not compromised by trees being planted in the wrong locations and will also ensure that appropriate succession planting for older trees is properly planned and implemented. Trees should not be planted where they overhang, cast shade or drop debris on intensively used grass areas, specialist recreational or sports surfaces or buildings. The open nature of parks and key views must not be reduced or compromised by poorly considered tree planting. Trees provide important visual features or backdrops but the temptation of filling any open area with trees without proper consideration must be avoided. 9 Trees will be planted where the key functions of the park will not be impacted or compromised Policy – planting in public parks Page 63 of 86
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3.2 Countryside and Woodlands Sites Countryside and woodland sites are often more natural settings with more vegetation than other open spaces, where walking and other outdoor pursuits are the primary recreation function. Due to the more natural setting of these sites, biodiversity and ecosystems health are a greater focus when managing these sites. The function and character of the sites should not be compromised by inappropriate tree planting that would block key views or reduce public enjoyment. Tree planting in countryside and woodland sites should aim to enhance the recreational experience whilst improving biodiversity and addressing any tree losses. Countryside sites should only be planted with native species, unless non-natives are advocated in a specific site management or master plan. Controlled self-seeding allows a natural form of regeneration for trees lost through disease, storms or damage. Varied native species should be selected to ensure resilience against single species diseases. The Forest Plan and any individual existing site management plans (see appendix 2) should always be consulted prior to undertaking work and implemented as appropriate. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) have additional protections and planting restrictions. Any specific designations must be checked along with any relevant stakeholder consultation e.g. NatureScot for SSSIs. 10 The Council will prioritise the planting native trees in countryside and woodland sites to enhance biodiversity and address tree loss Policy – countryside and woodland sites Page 64 of 86
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3.3 Tree Planting in Cemeteries Trees make a valuable contribution to the amenity and setting of cemeteries and enhance the sense of tranquillity and peaceful reflection for those visiting them in addition to biodiversity and amenity benefits. Tree roots can however cause practical difficulties in excavating lairs, destabilising headstones and larger memorials or restricting access. Care is needed in identifying suitable locations for new tree planting in existing cemeteries and must be through full discussion and agreement with the Bereavement Services team and consultation with Friends of Cemeteries. In general, trees will only be planted in existing cemeteries as replacements. Planting within new cemeteries or cemetery extensions should be incorporated into the design of the site, whilst maintaining the primary function for burials. Trees can be planted to provide distinct avenues in rows and as individual ‘specimen’ trees as focal points. Root barriers should be considered to protect lairs if there is any doubt about potential root encroachment. Suggested species: evergreens such as Yew, Scots Pine, Korean fir due to non-invasive roots, narrow foliage and less leaf-litter. Flowering ornamentals also suitable for new cemeteries and extensions 11 Trees will be planted in areas which do not reduce capacity, create difficulties for burials, or impact the sensitive nature of the site Policy – cemetery planting Page 65 of 86
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3.4 School Grounds Planting in schools offers a valuable opportunity to involve children in planting, monitoring and maintaining the trees, providing engaging educational exercises. Trees in schools are the responsibility of the school and Property Services and should be in full agreement to any new tree planting. Specialist advice can be provided to schools where requested, to ensure appropriate trees are chosen, planted and maintained following good practice. Tree planting should be sited in such a way as to ensure the remaining grounds can function effectively and be efficiently maintained. Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust may also be able to provide support through the ‘Tree For Every Child’ project to encourage more planting within school grounds with pupil involvement. Planting trees provides an excellent learning experience as well as enhancing the school environment and encourages an early interest in trees and green spaces. The New Tree Planting Guidance for Schools gives advice for successful establishment and maintenance of trees on school grounds. 12 Tree planting is encouraged and supported on school grounds following the same principles set out for other open spaces Policy – planting in schools ©PKCT Page 66 of 86
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3.5 Grow Wild Areas ‘Grow Wild’ Areas present a valuable opportunity to bring additional interest to the area, enhance biodiversity, wildlife habitats and allow space for trees to grow and thrive. Tree planting will be considered as part of the development of new and existing permanent Grow Wild areas e.g. suitable park margins and steep ground. To enhance biodiversity, trees should be native and encourage dependent species of plants and animals. Native trees with attractive features (e.g. colourful blossom) can improve the visual impact of Grow Wild areas. Trees should be varied in species and age to strengthen ecological resilience, be low maintenance, and must be able to survive in a grassland environment. Species must be appropriate for space available and type of site and if space is limited, small and native trees such as Rowan, Hawthorn, Field maple and Crab apple can be used. These areas are also ideal for wildlife corridors, and the planting of native blossoms will encourage biodiversity. Fruit, ornamental or memorial trees can also be planted in areas permanently designated as Grow Wild. Not all Grow Wild sites are appropriate for additional tree planting, with the suitability being dependant on other site characteristics such as distance to buildings or where access is required for grounds maintenance. Please visit the Council website to find out more about ‘Grow Wild’ 13 Trees will be planted within selected Grow Wild areas to enhance biodiversity and wildlife habitat Policy – tree planting & Grow Wild Page 67 of 86
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3.6 Orchards & Food Growing Many communities have a history of fruit growing and orchards throughout Perth and Kinross. Orchards are shared resources, often managed by local residents. Besides food production, they can contribute to improving and creating habitats and build resilience against urbanisation and climate change impacts. Orchards are normally identified as areas where there is a minimum of 5 fruit trees. Soft fruits within hedgerows adds to diversity, feeding people and wildlife. They maybe located within parks, school grounds or woodland areas where there is sufficient space. Individual fruit trees can be incorporated into ‘Grow Wild’ sites or as part of other park development projects to further enhance amenity and biodiversity value. Fruit trees will not be planted where dropped fruit will fall on hard surfaces or amenity areas such as shrub or herbaceous borders. They will not be planted where insects are likely to cause a nuisance to other park uses such as picnic areas. The Food Growing Strategy encourages people to grow food locally including on Council owned and managed land. The Council, through their Community Food Growing Officer, supports planting and management of fruit trees or small orchards in suitable locations where community groups have shown interest and are able to maintain them. 14 The Council will support community groups in the planting of fruit trees or orchards where there is suitable space and public interest Policy – planting fruit trees & orchards Page 68 of 86
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3.7 Green Corridors Green corridors are usually relatively narrow strips of greenspace associated with off road active travel routes for people in urban and rural areas. They can also provide important routes and habitats for wildlife to move through and between areas avoiding barriers and hard surfaces. Tree planting should enhance pathways without causing obstruction or damage to the surfaces from roots, branches or excessive debris. Planting should maximise wildlife interaction and biodiversity whilst ensuring sufficient access for maintenance of any infrastructure. Care must be taken to ensure the trees are appropriate for the space available to avoid future problems for neighbouring properties or land uses. They should also ensure that the corridor remains safe and welcoming for users, avoid creating dark or concealed areas or blocking lighting. Native trees such as Wild Cherry, Whitebeam, Rowan, Hawthorn, Crab Apple and other Malus and Prunus species all add blossom and natural colour. Dense planting of trees or shrubs may be used along the edge of water courses or at the edge of ponds to dissuade entry to the water and encourage biodiversity. 15 Trees will be planted in ‘Green Corridors’ where they enhance their amenity value and improve wildlife connectivity Policy – planting in green corridors Page 69 of 86
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3.8 Council Land within Residential Areas Large areas of Council managed land in Perth and Kinross lie within residential areas. Trees within existing housing estates can form a core part of the identity of an area, adding character, wildlife benefit and interest to a neighbourhood. Additional benefits often include a reduction in surface water flooding and can act as wind or noise buffers. They may also act as a corridor for wildlife where greenspaces have otherwise been fragmented through development. Planting of open areas is therefore encouraged in otherwise unutilised areas of greenspace within housing areas but must follow the principles described throughout this policy. Trees should be planted in such a way as to avoid obstruction of sight lines or interference with any existing recreational use of the site. For housing areas in particular, the guidance within 3.10 Trees Next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities section must be followed. For any new planting likely to be contentious, the Council will consult with the neighbours and potential site users. Guidance is available to developers of new sites in the Open Space Provision for New Developments Supplementary Guidance. 16 Trees will only be planted within housing areas where there is sufficient space to avoid long term adverse impacts on buildings, residents and infrastructure Policy – planting in existing residential areas Page 70 of 86
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3.9 Street and Urban Planting Street & urban trees offer amenity value, shade and carbon sequestration in areas that may otherwise have limited or no greenspace. A wider variety of species can be used, both native and non-native, for street planting to provide visual interest. Additional care is required when choosing the correct species for an urban environment to ensure that nuisance issues such as aphid drop, bird droppings and leaf and fruit litter do not create additional maintenance burdens, and that roots will not damage pavements or road surfaces. Where space is limited, fastigiate (where branches are more or less parallel with the main stem) varieties of native trees (see appendix 1) are an ideal choice for urban environments and are especially suitable for avenues and around parking areas. Street trees face more challenging environmental factors, such as pollution and increased human interaction leading to increased levels of stress, so greater preservation and aftercare features may be required (see 4.3 Establishment and Maintenance), such as watering access and tree guards. Trees may be planted in containers in urban environments to prevent root compaction and stem damage from heavy footfall. Tree species intolerant to higher salt exposure from street gritting or higher pollution levels may not be suitable for all street planting. Salt tolerant natives are indicated in appendix 1. Higher levels of maintenance and regular pruning are required to maintain public access and clearance for roads, streetlighting and CCTV (table 2). Resources for additional maintenance must be confirmed prior to planting. 17 Trees planted in streets will be done as part of an approved masterplan with details agreed prior to implementation and adoption Policy – Street & urban trees Street feature Minimum clearance Pavements and public access routes 2.4m height Highways and public roads 5.3m height Cycle paths and bridleways 3.0m height Table 2. minimum clearances required for access Page 71 of 86
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3.10 Trees next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities Correct planting distances and spacing are essential for new trees to avoid ‘nuisance’ issues of blocked light, overshading, damage to guttering and facias or debris drop. While trees are essential to biodiversity and public wellbeing, consideration of potential negative impacts on neighbouring properties must always be considered to prevent these nuisance issues and possible third-party damage to trees. These guidelines apply to planting within all areas except for urban & street tree planting which may be planted be closer to buildings (see 3.9 Streets and Urban Planting). The mature height and canopy spread of any trees being planted, rather than the height at planting, must be considered before planting in the vicinity of buildings, gardens or infrastructure. Smaller trees or shrubs may help provide a visual buffer and wildlife value but should follow the same principle. These guidelines should not prevent the planting of trees near neighbouring properties but emphasise the importance of correct species choice. 18 The Council will only plant trees where they will not impact buildings, overhang gardens or interfere with utilities infrastructure Policy – Trees next to buildings Trees should be planted at least their anticipated mature height away from buildings Trees should be planted at least half their anticipated mature height away from boundaries Trees with limited root intrusion and slow growth should be used where possible (appendix 1) Tree planting should not cause excessive shading of neighbouring gardens or properties Trees planted to the south-west of any building where shading of the building or garden from the evening sun is likely to be a nuisance will need to be planted further from the boundary if this will otherwise result in excessive shading Planted trees must not impact on solar panels of neighbouring properties Consider shorter or fastigiate tree species when planting close to buildings Trees may need to be planted further away than these guidelines in circumstances where nuisance issues would otherwise be unavoidable Any trees planted near buildings will comply with the British Standard BS5837:2012 (appendix 3). Page 72 of 86
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Trees next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities cont. Service checks must be carried out before any planting is to take place for the presence of both underground utilities (drainage pipes, electrical and fibre cables and gas supplies) and overhead utilities (high and low voltage cabling and telephone lines). Subsoil utilities are often only 350-450mm deep and may be susceptible to damage from roots, while the canopy of the tree can cause interference or damage to overhead utilities. Sufficient clearance should be given to allow for maintenance of any of these utilities. 19Page 73 of 86
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4.0 Planting, establishment & maintenance 20 In this section: 4.1 Planting Stock what size of tree can be planted and where does the Council get their trees from 4.2 Planting Methods how and when are trees best planted 4.3 Establishment & Maintenance what maintenance is done to ensure the trees remain healthy 3.4 Planting Protections Flowchart what protections are put in place to prevent damage Page 74 of 86
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4.1 Planting Stock The Council grows a wide selection of native trees at Westbank Nursery, Perth. This stock of trees will be used for all planting on Council land wherever possible. Trees may be not always be readily available from Westbank when specific sizes or species are required and will be sourced externally from approved suppliers. All stock will meet BS 3936- 1 Nursery Stock Specification (appendix 3). Correctly specified trees are more likely to establish quickly and have better survival rates. Planting stock is provided in a variety of forms ranging in size from bare rooted whips, pods and potted, to heavy standards. Most trees will be planted as bare rooted transplants or ‘whips’ during the correct planting seasonal range, normally November to March. Younger trees planted in bare root form will generally have a higher chance of survival, if planted correctly with proper protections, as the whip will more easily adapt to its environment relative to a container grown tree. However, a range of age and sizes will be planted, with older trees being required for certain areas or projects (Table 3). 21 All planting will be sourced from in-house stock at Westbank where possible. Other trees will be sourced from approved suppliers Policy - planting stock Tree size When to use Whip - between 2 to 4 years old, unbranched, normally bare rooted When a large number of trees or dense planting is required e.g. planting of large area or woodland expansion Potted – A container grown tree, often non-native For container growing in urban raised tree beds Standard – normally standing at a height of approximately 6ft As a landscaping feature in planned groups or linear focus areas and avenues Heavy Standard - showing branch growth and the beginnings of a full crown. Usually 7-9ft in height As individual plantings in either urban or park environment. Suitable to use for memorial tree planting Extra Heavy Standards/Semi Matures – over 9ft in height with significant branch and crown development As a distinctive feature tree, especially within a heavy footfall environment or as an exceptional memorial tree Table 3. When to use different size trees Page 75 of 86
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4.2 Planting methods The specific planting method will vary depending on site conditions, tree species and stock size. Planting is best carried out between October and March to give the best survivability for any newly planted tree. All stock, regardless of size, should be inspected for signs of disease or damage before planting. Whips will be planted in slots or notches using a spade to make a narrow cut in the soil, and protection will depend on site location (see table on page 24 for protection specifications). If whips are planted in a fenced, herbivore proof protected area, then normally they will require no further protection, although this is only recommended for large-scale planting. Standard trees will be planted in square or rectangular pits, pricked on all sides and relevant staking and guards put in place. No feed should be included in any tree planting, as this can promote shallow root growth and the salinity will damage delicate root systems although leaf mould may be included in the planting of standards. To reduce competition from weeds and promote tree growth, mulch should be used around the planting area to a depth of 3-4cm not in contact with the plant stem itself. Mulch mats are ideal for this purpose. Any minor formative pruning of the branches or roots should be carried out at the planting stage. Irrigation piping, planting guys and more elaborate planting protection may be used in the case of specimen trees. Trees in street environments may also be planted in containers and adequate drainage through gravel layers and trough perforations must be considered. More detail on pit sizes and protection guidance is given in the table on page 25. 22 Planting will be done during the correct season, using the right stock type and species and methods to promote survivability Policy – planting Page 76 of 86
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4.3 Establishment and Maintenance The successful establishment of newly planted trees is largely dependent on following good planting and maintenance practices within the first 3 years. Good practice includes weed management, herbivore control, staking and watering during dry periods (see chart on page 24). Trees will be planted in accordance with BS8545 (appendix 3). Trees being staked and tied must be done using adjustable ties. Incorrect use of tree ties, stakes or tree guards will reduce survivability of trees. Regular monitoring and removal of tree protections, once established, will improve the success of newly planted trees. Tree ties and stakes must be secure but loose enough to allow growth. Formative pruning after planting will ease future maintenance and help prevent tree intrusion 23 Trees on Council land will be planted following best practice and relevant British Standard, BS8545 Policy – establishment Trees will be maintained with weed and herbivore control and regularly monitored until well established Policy – maintenance Machine mowers and strimmers must not be used close to the base of trees to avoid stem damage and invigoration of grass, which will compete with plantings for water and nutrients. Guards will be regularly inspected and removed after 3 years, when they become brittle, break or start to restrict growth. Trees will also be kept weed free for 3 years through mulching and/or hand weeding, or until their canopy circumference is greater than the weed free soil area. Trees will be during periods of prolonged dry weather within the first year of being planted. A tree is considered established once it demonstrates consistent growth, is producing new buds and remains firm when it is gently pulled from above. Underground guying might be considered to increase resilience to high winds while tree barriers, pits or containers may prevent root damage to pavements and roads. Requirements will vary by tree size, site and environmental conditions and are summarised in table 4 on page 23. Page 77 of 86
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Establishment and Maintenance cont. 24 Tree size Dimensions Tree pit requirements Minimum / recommended protection Aftercare and maintenance Inspection period Whip Unbranched, bare root N/A Spiral guard and cane Remove guards if restricting or brittle. Inspect every 6 months until established Initially 3-6 month Until established then annually Potted 2-3ft high 1.5 x pot rooted diameter Stake Water to establish in line with shrub planting Keep base weed free within pot 6 monthly Standard 6-7ft high, feathered 450 x 450 x 300mm Mulch, tie and stake, guards if required. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established then annually Heavy Standard Beginnings of crown, 7-9ft High 600 x 600 x 500mm Mulch, tie, stake or multi stake. Ornate guard in street environment. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established then annually Extra Heavy standard Maturer crown, 9-11ft high 700 x 700 x 500mm Mulch , tie, stake or multi stake with architectural guard. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established Table 4. Required maintenance for newly planted trees by tree size Page 78 of 86
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4.4 Planting protections flowchart 25 Protections for newly planted trees Herbivore management Environment protection Watering and nutrient addition Weed control Place loose mulch or mulch mats at the base when planting Hand weed around base of tree For standard trees or larger, install watering tubes when planting Water trees during dry periods, particularly within the first year of being planted Use tree guards for whips or small trees Remove tree guards and stakes once tree is well established Use stakes and adjustable tree ties to support trees in high winds Adjust tree ties as tree grows to prevent choking (minimum 1x per year) Larger trees may require metal mesh guards where beavers are present Page 79 of 86
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5.0 Memorial Trees Memorial trees are a popular way to remember and commemorate a person or significant milestone. The Council provides the opportunity to plant trees within Council land with a memorial plaque. The species and location of the tree(s) to be planted will be agreed between the requester and Community Greenspace. Not all sites will be suitable for the planting of memorial trees, but Community Greenspace will be able to help find an appropriate location. Most memorial trees will be planted in parks and other amenity greenspaces only where suitable space is available, and any tree planted should follow the guidance within this policy specific to the site they are being planted in. Once a suitable site and tree has been agreed, Community Greenspace will organise the planting of the tree and arrange any required aftercare. All costs will be paid by the requestor and settled up front before planting can take place. The Council will be offering bird and bat boxes as an alternative to tree planting. For more information, please refer to the Memorial Bench & Trees Policy (to be updated 2026). 26 The Council offers the opportunity to plant trees in selected locations in remembrance or commemoration Policy – memorial tree planting Page 80 of 86
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6.0 Data Recording The Council are working towards producing a comprehensive record of all trees planted on Council land. The information recorded will include the location and date of planting, species and size of tree, any tree protections installed and a timeline for any routine maintenance including removal of tree protections. Planting data can be recorded by all relevant Council staff and will be publicly accessible. Combined with data captured for any tree removals, site surveys and Ash Dieback surveys, this will provide an overview of the Council’s tree inventory and species composition. Accurate analyses of carbon sequestration & survivability rates will be possible, and any long- term trends can be easier identified at a local and Council-wide level. 27 All newly planted trees will be recorded digitally and mapped on ArcGIS Policy – data recording Page 81 of 86
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7.0 Volunteering for Tree Planting The Council supports a large number of greenspace volunteer groups in most communities throughout Perth and Kinross including bloom groups, path groups, park groups, friends of cemetery, allotment groups and more. All these volunteers and other interested groups are encouraged to take part in community planting. The Council can offer support through organised planting events and training in tree planting, aftercare and maintenance. For more information about volunteering with Community Greenspace, please see the Volunteering with Community Greenspace webpage. The Perth and Kinross Tree Wardens help to plant and monitor trees within Perth & Kinross. The Tree Wardens are supported by the Tayside Biodiversity Partnership who aim to conserve and enhance the biodiversity. 28 ©PKCT Page 82 of 86
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8.0 Useful links and advice for Council services 29 While trees within different sites may be managed by different Council Services (e.g. Housing & Communities, Education & Learning), the same good practice and principles apply to all Council land, including tree planting. Community Greenspace can offer specialist advice to all services within the Council including tree planting, removal, tree work standards, illegal felling, identification of dangerous and diseased trees and general tree health. Community consultation is undertaken as part of any project or in the development of management plans for or within the Council’s public greenspaces. This may include park upgrades, implementing the Forest Plan and planting activities that may impact the use of any open space or affect neighbouring properties. Active and previous public consultations can be found at the Perth & Kinross Council Consultation Hub. Community Greenspace can be contacted by email at: treeandwoodlands@pkc.gov.uk communitygreenspace@pkc.gov.uk Other resources are available within the Council including the Climate Change team and, for issues related to TPOs or Conservation areas, Planning Enforcement Perth and Kinross Climate Action Trees and Tree Preservation Orders Page 83 of 86
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Appendix 1 – Trees & Shrubs native to Scotland Alder ◊ Alnus glutinosa Silver birch ∆ Betula pendula Downy birch Betula pubescens Hazel = Corylus avellana Hawthorn ◊ Crataegus monogyna Broom Cytisus scoparius Spindle Euonymus europaeus Ash * Fraxinus excelsior Holly ◊ Ilex aquifolium Juniper ◊ Juniperus communis Crab apple + = Malus sylvestris Scots pine ◊ Pinus sylvestris Black poplar Populus nigra Aspen ◊ Populus tremula Gean = Prunus avium Bird cherry ∆ = Prunus padus Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Sessile oak Quercus petraea Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Red currant Ribes rubrum Erect-spiked red-currant Ribes spicatum Hairy dog rose Rosa caesia caesia Glaucous dog rose Rosa caesia Vosagiaca Dog rose Rosa canina Soft downy rose Rosa mollis Sweet briar Rosa rubiginosa Sherard’s downy rose Rosa sherardii Harsh downy rose Rosa tomentosa Raspberry Rubus idaeus Eared sallow Salix aurita Goat willow Salix caprea Grey willow Salix cinerea Dark leaved willow Salix myrsinifolia Bay willow Salix pentandra Tea-leaved willow Salix phylicifolia Purple willow Salix purpurea Elder = Sambucus nigra Rowan ◊ + ∆ Sorbus aucuparia Yew + ∆ Taxus baccata Small-leaved lime ∆ Tilia cordata Gorse Ulex europaeus Western gorse Ulex gallii Wych elm Ulmus glabra Guelder rose Viburnum opulus 30 * Not to be used - suitability as planting stock suspended due to Ash Dieback + Slow growing species with non invasive roots suitable for planting in vicinity to buildings ◊ Salt tolerant species ∆ Available in fastigiate form = Blossom in Spring / early Summer Page 84 of 86
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Appendix 2 – Council sites with management plans The Birks of Aberfeldy The Knock, Crieff The Den o’ Alyth Perth City Lade 31 Inchture Park Kingoodie Quarry Invergowrie Park Invergowrie Roadside Strip Muirton and Inveralmond Woods, Perth Bellwood and Norrie-Miller Parks, Perth Craigie Woods, Perth Kinnoull Hill, Perth Moncrieffe Island, Perth Oakbank and Burghmuir, Perth St Magdalene’s Hill, Perth North Inch, Perth South Inch, Perth Tulloch Woods, Perth Viewlands Reservoir Park, Perth Jeanfield Cemetery, Perth Den O’Alyth Larghan Park, Coupar Angus Scone Public Park Loon Braes, Davie Park, Keith Bank and Riverside, Blairgowrie Birks of Aberfeldy, Riverside and Victoria Park Black Spout Wood, Pitlochry Tom na moan Park, Pitlochry Luncarty Woods Lady Mary’s Walk, Crieff MacRosty Park, Mungall Park and Taylor Park, Crieff Puddock Wood, Crieff The Knock of Crieff Jubilee Park, Dunkeld Provost’s Walk and Primrose Park, Auchterarder Abernethy Glen Springfield Park, Kinross Sites within the PKC Forest Plan 2015-2035 are: Sites with individual management plans are: Kinnoull Hill, Perth MacRosty Park, Crieff Larghan Victory Park, Coupar Angus Victoria Park, Aberfeldy Page 85 of 86
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Appendix 3 – BSI Standards Publications 32 British Standard Description BS 3936 Nursery Stock Specification for Trees and Shrubs Sets out specifications for quality, size and labelling of trees and shrubs BS 8545 Trees from nursery to Independence Covers approved planting guidelines using new plantings while covering aspects of nursery production BS 5837 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction Specifically, recommendations regarding planting trees in vicinity of buildings Information on all British Standards for tree are available at the BSI website Page 86 of 86