Sutton Council Approves New Five-Year Tree Maintenance Contract Amid Budgetary Challenges

Sutton Council has approved a new five-year contract for tree maintenance services, set to commence on April 1, 2027. The Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee met on Thursday, October 8, 2026, to discuss and approve the recommissioning of the tree maintenance contract, which was necessary as the current agreement concludes on March 31, 2027. The council, responsible for nearly 250,000 trees across the borough, evaluated several options before opting to re-engage a specialist external provider.

A group of five people, including a man wearing a mayoral chain, stand together, possibly at a cultural event.
Council members at a meetingSource: Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee papers, 8 October 2026

Following a two-stage procurement process, a preferred bidder was identified. However, all submitted bids significantly exceeded the council's current budget. This was attributed to prevailing market pressures, wage growth, and inflation within the sector. Specifically, the arboricultural sector has faced significant cost pressures due to a shortage of skilled labour and government-mandated increases in employment costs that exceed general inflation. Additionally, key operational expenses, such as fuel, have risen above inflation rates. The committee ultimately approved the award of the contract to Contractor A for a period of five years, with an option to extend for a further two years, subject to the successful completion of a mandatory standstill period and an increase to the existing budget.

During the meeting, councillors also discussed the importance of selecting trees resilient to climate change for future planting strategies. The council is focusing on planting trees that will be more successful in drier, wetter, and harsher environments. They are also mindful of avoiding trees that grow to a significant size or have low water demand, particularly on shrinkable clay soils prevalent in parts of the borough. The council also addressed the challenges associated with recruiting and retaining specialist arboricultural workforces. To combat this, they are looking to implement longer-term apprenticeships to grow and upskill the workforce, providing opportunities for local residents and younger people while addressing market needs for skilled labour.

For more details on the committee's discussions, refer to the Public reports pack.

A South Asian Festival performance with dancers on stage and an audience seated in chairs.
South Asian Festival performanceSource: Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee papers, 8 October 2026

Children engaged in a craft activity at an outdoor event.
Children's craft activitySource: Environment and Sustainable Transport Committee papers, 8 October 2026