Committee for Infrastructure launches Call for Evidence on the Tree Protection Bill

The Northern Ireland Assembly’s Committee for Infrastructure has today announced the opening of a Call for Evidence on the proposed Tree Protection Bill, a Member’s Bill introduced by Peter McReynolds MLA.

Should the Bill pass Second Stage, the Committee will use the evidence to inform scrutiny of the Bill, which seeks to strengthen protections for trees across Northern Ireland.

The Committee is inviting written evidence from stakeholders, experts and members of the public.

The Call for Evidence opened on 9 July 2026 and will close on 16 September 2026.

The Committee is keen to hear a broad range of perspectives to inform its consideration of the Bill’s provisions, including its potential environmental, planning and community impacts.

Chairperson of the Committee for Infrastructure, Peter Martin MLA, said: “The Committee welcomes the opportunity to scrutinise the Tree Protection Bill and is committed to ensuring that all views are carefully considered. Trees play a vital role in our environment, our communities and our wellbeing.

“We are particularly keen to hear from individuals, organisations and experts with an interest in environmental protection, planning policy and local development. I would encourage anyone with relevant experience or views on the Bill to take part in our Call for Evidence and help inform the Committee’s work.”

Should the Bill reach Committee Stage, the Committee for Infrastructure will use the evidence received during the call for evidence to inform its deliberations and report to the Assembly on the Bill.

Further details on how to respond to the Call for Evidence are available via the Northern Ireland Assembly website.

ENDS