Transforming Green Infrastructure Management:
Executive Summary:
NHS Chester has successfully modernised its tree management operations by adopting Mapscape, a cloud-based digital tree mapping and management platform. Moving away from static PDF reports, the Trust now benefits from interactive digital maps, automated carbon calculations, and 3D visualisation tools aligned with the NHS’s Net Zero strategy.
The project has delivered measurable efficiency gains, improved collaboration with volunteers and contractors, and laid the foundation for long-term sustainable estate management. Following its successful rollout, NHS Chester has approved ongoing subscription renewal as part of its wider green infrastructure programme.
Introduction:
NHS Chester’s Estates and Grounds Maintenance team manages a substantial portfolio of trees across hospital sites and adjacent parkland. Previously, tree surveys were recorded in PDF format and manually updated by the grounds maintenance manager, limiting access to the information and slowing decision-making.
With growing emphasis on the NHS Net Zero and sustainability agenda, the Trust sought a digital solution that could provide accurate carbon calculations, accessible mapping, and cost-effective management tools. When they discovered Mapscape, they recognised an opportunity to combine digital innovation with environmental responsibility.
Objectives:
- Replace static tree survey PDFs with an interactive, map-based digital platform.
- Support NHS Net Zero reporting through automated carbon-sequestration calculations.
- Enable cross-departmental access to real-time tree data for improved planning and safety.
- Integrate volunteers and sub-contractors securely into the workflow.
- Create a long-term foundation for sustainable green estate management.
Solution
Mapscape provided a complete cloud-hosted tree management solution tailored to the NHS Chester estate. Using Ordnance Survey MasterMap and Bluesky International HD Aerial Imagery, the system accurately positioned every tree within the hospital grounds and surrounding parkland.
The software’s intuitive interface allows users to visualise trees in both 2D and interactive 3D environments, displaying canopy spread, target zones, and fall distances using colour-coded priority codes. Automated spreadsheets simplify reporting and cost estimation, while integrated photo records enhance auditability.
Volunteer and sub-contractor access has been securely enabled, allowing students and ex-service personnel to contribute to data collection and environmental maintenance, supporting both social value and workforce development objectives.
Implementation
Mapscape worked closely with the NHS Chester Grounds Maintenance team to configure site maps, upload baseline data, and train staff and volunteers through Teams sessions and on-site visits.
Initial challenges, including aligning existing records and tree numbering, were swiftly resolved through Mapscape’s responsive support and user-friendly import tools. Within hours, teams were confidently plotting trees, verifying positions, and generating automated reports for internal use and external contractors.
Results
- Full digital mapping of all trees across hospital and parkland sites.
- Significant time savings compared with manual PDF updates.
- Streamlined contractor engagement and quotation planning using target-zone visuals.
- Improved ability to demonstrate carbon sequestration contributions to the NHS Net Zero Plan.
- Enhanced volunteer participation and data accuracy through intuitive mobile tools.
- Positive feedback from staff: “The 3D view makes tree management modern, engaging, and accessible.”
Results
- Full digital mapping of all trees across hospital and parkland sites.
- Significant time savings compared with manual PDF updates.
- Streamlined contractor engagement and quotation planning using target-zone visuals.
- Improved ability to demonstrate carbon sequestration contributions to the NHS Net Zero Plan.
- Enhanced volunteer participation and data accuracy through intuitive mobile tools.
- Positive feedback from staff: “The 3D view makes tree management modern, engaging, and accessible.”
Conclusion:
NHS Chester’s adoption of Mapscape has transformed tree management from a static reporting process into a dynamic, data-driven operation. The Trust now benefits from accurate mapping, improved risk awareness, and a transparent link between environmental management and sustainability reporting.
Testimonial:
“Mapscape has been a fantastic addition to our estate management toolkit. The setup support was excellent, the software is intuitive, and the ability to view trees in 3D and calculate carbon automatically has been a real step forward. Our volunteers enjoy using it, and it’s helping us plan for a greener, safer campus.”
NHS Chester Grounds Maintenance Manager
Future Plans:
NHS Chester plans to expand its use of Mapscape with the forthcoming Tree Risk Assessment and Tree Planting applications. These tools will support ongoing canopy management, new planting for screening and wellbeing areas, and long-term establishment tracking, further embedding digital sustainability within the NHS estate.
