We are looking for a Tree Preservation Officer for Somerset Council. Job Role: Consider and process applications for work to trees covered by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). To write reports and make recommendations in order to ensure consistency and quality, compliance with statutory deadlines and timescales; including preparing for any appeals against a decision of the Council relating to works to trees subject of a TPO. Consider and process notifications for works to trees within conservation areas (CA), negotiate with applicants as required and prepare associated technical reports as necessary. To prepare new tree preservation orders and update old tree preservation orders as necessary, including surveys, preparation of reports, aspects of objections and the efficient maintenance of records. Consider and process notifications for removal of hedgerows in the open countryside and prepare associated technical reports as necessary. Support Planning Enforcement in respect of investigations of unauthorised tree works or hedgerow removals. Advise on the Council's response in respect of unauthorised works to trees under TPO or within a Conservation Area and where necessary to appear as the Council's technical expert at any inquiry, hearing or court case arising there from. When consulted advise on planning applications and discharge of conditions, which can include complex/contentious applications and projects, to achieve the Council’s statutory and non-statutory planning functions. Prepare reports to present evidence as technical expert through written representation, at hearing and at planning inquiries. Prepare and present reports as necessary to committee meetings, officers and public groups. Provide arboricultural advice and expert service independently or as part of a multi-disciplinary team to the Council as a whole. Advise other departments on the employment of arboricultural consultants and contractors. Provide specialist arboricultural advice as necessary, as part of the preparation of planning policies (through the Statutory Development Plan process) and development briefs to ensure that trees are considered and a high quality of environment is achieved. If this role sounds of interest please apply with your most recent CV and Daniel will be in touch to discuss the role in greater detail