Tree Risk Surveys and Management Plans
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
The real focus isn't just counting trees
The title might lead you to think this is purely about surveying trees.
But it’s more about managing risk and ensuring safety.
Boston Borough Council, along with South Holland District Council, is not just looking to inventory trees.
They want a comprehensive risk management plan.
The contract asks you to zone sites, complete a detailed inventory and assess risks — especially in high-traffic areas.
Remember, you're not just counting trees.
You're assessing potential hazards.
Think about the people using these spaces
It's easy to get lost in the technical details.
But don't forget the people who use these parks and gardens every day.
Residents, children, dog walkers.
They rely on these spaces being safe.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to see how your work keeps these spaces safe for everyone.
Training isn't an afterthought
Training Council staff might seem like a small part of the contract.
But it’s vital.
Your approach to training should empower 'parks and gardens' staff.
They need to be capable of undertaking Passive Assessments themselves.
This isn’t just a half-day task.
It’s about building confidence and ensuring long-term safety.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver an excellent service.
Very few proved it.
If you have evidence, use it.
- Provide case studies from similar projects
- Share testimonials from previous clients
- Include data showing reduced incidents from your previous assessments
- Highlight qualifications of the team members who will deliver the training
- Explain how you’ve adapted training to different learning styles
Pay attention to what they say
The notice is clear about one thing.
They need an "Arborist/suitably qualified inspector" who understands Industry/Forest Research Data Standards.
This isn’t optional.
It’s a core requirement.
Show them that you understand and can adhere to these standards.
Explain how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Consistency over the entire term
The contract runs for a short period.
But that doesn't mean consistency is less important.
You'll need to manage the project from start to finish without any drop in standards.
Think about staffing levels.
Consider how you'll handle any unexpected absences.
Outline your process for performance reviews and inspections.
Don't just focus on the trees. Think about the data.
Yes, trees are the primary subject.
But data is what drives this project.
Your ability to capture, manage and report data is crucial.
If I were writing this tender, I’d showcase how my data management processes ensure accuracy and reliability.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
Boston Borough Council and South Holland District Council want to feel confident.
Confident that the parks and gardens are safe.
Confident that their staff can carry on the work after the contract ends.
Every part of your submission should reinforce this confidence.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Overlook the training requirements for Council staff
- Ignore the emphasis on Industry/Forest Research Data Standards
- Fail to provide evidence of past project success
- Lack a clear plan for managing and reporting data
- Don't address how to handle unexpected staffing issues
- Focus solely on tree inventory without discussing risk management
- Neglect the importance of safety for park users
My Final Thoughts
This contract is not just about tree surveys.
It’s about creating safer public spaces and empowering Council staff.
The £200,000 value and short term highlight the importance of delivering efficiently and effectively.
Quality matters here.
Your written submission needs to reflect the Council's emphasis on safety, training and data accuracy.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.