Trees to be felled over Aberystwyth sudden oak death

An infected Japanese larch tree

Up to 60 trees are to be felled by Forestry Commission Wales (FCW) after a deadly infection was found in woodland near Aberystwyth.

Cases of phytophthora ramorum - or "sudden oak death" - were found on Japanese larch trees at the Bwlch Nant yr Arian visitor centre.

The disease is a fungus-like pathogen and was first found in Wales in June in south Wales.

FCW said its visitor centre would remain open to the public.

It said phytophthora ramorum was not harmful to humans or animals, and work to fell the trees would take about two weeks with "as little disruption as possible to visitors".

Ruth Jenkins of FCW, which manages Bwlch Nant yr Arian on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government, said: "Phytophthora ramorum is a serious tree disease and we are moving quickly to fell the infected trees at Bwlch Nant yr Arian.

"By felling infected trees, we hope to limit the production of the spores that spread the infection and minimise the impact of the outbreak.

"Bwlch Nant yr Arian is a popular site, so it is also important that we fell infected trees before they die and become unstable, thus presenting a potential risk to visitors."

Part of the route around a lake at the visitor centre will close for a short period while the trees are felled.

To avoid spreading the infection, visitors are being asked to observe some precautions and follow instructions on signs placed around the infected area, said FCW.

These include keeping to paths, keeping dogs on leads, cleaning footwear and not taking any plant material away.

Meanwhile, cyclists will be asked to use a bike wash before leaving the centre and wash their clothing between visits.

In July, the Forestry Commission announced a £600,000 support package for woodland owners in south west England and Wales to help tackle the outbreak.

Last month, the infection was discovered on the first privately-owned woodland in Wales in Denbighshire.