Council to fell 100 trees infected with ash dieback

Peterborough City Council said essential tree felling would be carried out in the shelter belt running from South Bretton allotments to Deerleap

About 100 diseased trees are due to be cut down in Peterborough by the local authority starting on Monday.

Peterborough City Council said essential felling works would be carried out over five days in the "shelterbelt" running from South Bretton allotments to Deerleap.

A recent health and safety survey of trees in this area identified an advanced prevalence of ash dieback, as well as several trees infected with a fungi that causes decay which can make trees vulnerable in high winds, the authority said.

The council was taking action following recent tree failures in the area and said the trees that would be felled posed a high risk to the public and properties.

Last year, the council said ash dieback was a "particular concern" in Bretton Woods.

The disease damages shoots, branches and trunks and kills most of the infected trees, and the woods could become "dangerous".

Previously, Angus Ellis, the council's cabinet member for the environment and transport, said: "We have been monitoring the spread of ash dieback at Bretton Woods since 2013.

"Action needs to be taken as it is likely that the woods will become too dangerous for public access."

The council said suitable replacement planting would take place with the aim of a creating a resilient woodland of appropriate species.

Part of the bridleway and woodland would be closed while the works were ongoing.