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How, why and the proof that ProtectaWeb works

13 October 2025
David Fisher
David Fisher

Head of Geosynthetics Sales

Tree roots are easy to overlook – they’re out of sight, underground. But that’s often how and why problems start.

When heavy machinery and frequent traffic disturb the soil, it can quickly become compacted. This reduces the flow of water and oxygen to the root zone, damaging the delicate network of roots and rhizomes that trees rely on to stay healthy. Without access to essential nutrients, trees begin to struggle, and in many cases, die off entirely.

In new developments, where healthy, mature trees offer clear ecological and community value, protecting root systems is a practical necessity, not just a nice idea.

That’s where ProtectaWeb comes in.

Why Protecting Tree Roots Matters

Healthy, mature trees add considerable value to housing developments, enhancing visual appeal, providing shade, improving air quality, and providing critical biodiversity benefits. However, traditional construction practices can compact soil and disrupt essential water and oxygen supplies, damaging tree roots and affecting their growth and longevity. Adopting a solution like ProtectaWeb ensures the trees’ health and the sustainability of the development.

How ProtectaWeb Protects Tree Roots

ProtectaWeb creates a robust, load-bearing surface while effectively preventing damage to underlying soils and root systems. Its innovative design provides several practical benefits:

Cellular Structure

ProtectaWeb uses a three-dimensional grid structure made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). When placed on the ground and filled with angular stone aggregates, the cells create a stable, permeable surface that prevents soil compaction, protecting sensitive tree roots.

Efficient Load Distribution

The cellular structure evenly distributes vehicle loads, significantly reducing soil pressure. This prevents soil compaction that would otherwise limit essential oxygen and water from reaching tree roots.

Enhanced Drainage and Aeration

ProtectaWeb allows free passage of water and air to tree roots, ensuring they receive adequate moisture and oxygen. This ensures optimal tree health even on sloping ground or uneven terrains, making it highly effective for diverse site conditions.

No-Dig Installation

ProtectaWeb can be installed without extensive excavation. This ‘no-dig’ method minimises disturbance to the landscape and preserves the integrity of root systems. This reduces construction time, labour costs, and significantly limits the potential environmental impact.

Erosion Control

By stabilising stone infill and soil particles, ProtectaWeb actively mitigates erosion, which is especially useful on slopes and gradients common in housing development sites.

Tall tree growing with the sun

Proven Performance from Geoworks

ProtectaWeb is designed to enable compliance with BS 5837 (Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction). BS 5837 provides strong, explanatory guidance on tree care, carefully outlining best practices for every aspect of the development. The latest revion refers to current planning practices for the management, protection and planting of trees near structures and recognises the positive contribution trees make towards slowing climate change.

The ProtectaWeb system aligns with sustainable drainage principles from CIRIA’s SuDS Manual, advocating solutions that deliver both environmental and structural benefits without compromise.

ProtectaWeb’s practical advantages have been demonstrated in numerous applications, including housing developments, access roads, and public spaces, proving its value across various projects.

Why developers should choose ProtectaWeb:

  • Sustainability: Meets planning conditions focused on sustainable development and tree preservation.
  • Reduced Costs: Less excavation means lower labour, machinery, and waste removal expenses.
  • Compliance: Aligns with UK sustainability and drainage standards (SuDS), aiding swift planning approvals.
  • Enhancing Value: Healthy mature trees boost property values, making developments more attractive to buyers.

ProtectaWeb is a practical, sustainable, and cost-effective solution that ensures the longevity of both trees and infrastructure, making it an ideal choice for forward-thinking developers.

Related case study

ProtectaWeb™ keeps Wicklow property refurbishment on track

During a residential property refurbishment in Wicklow, more than 200m² of ProtectaWeb™ was installed to create a new access road while safeguarding 200-year-old trees. Working with Clonlough Contractors, the system reduced pressure on soils and roots, ensuring a reinforced surface without compromising the site’s natural heritage.

Clonlough Contractors
Read more
Related case study

Colchester Cemetery and Crematorium

When Colchester Cemetery and Crematorium needed to increase the space visitors had to park their cars, its options were limited. The only potential area it identified was within a copse of established oak and maple trees. The use of ProtectaWeb for this project enabled it to go ahead with minimal tree felling and maximum land use.

Colchester Borough Council
Read more

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