About 200 trees are to be felled from next week following another outbreak of elm disease.
The council’s arboriculture team will be removing the elms from Withdean Park to manage the spread of the disease and prevent recurrence though the root systems.
The 200 elm trees were identified following inspections which found a significant spread of the diseases. All the affected trees are situated in a small area of the park, but its prominent location means the work will have an impact on the wider park.
The work also includes felling one mature ash tree.
Cabinet member for recreation Alan Robins said: “It’s always sad when trees have to be felled, but the work planned for Withdean Park is essential to manage the ongoing problem of elm disease and to protect other healthy trees.
“Once the work is completed, we will continue to monitor the site to help prevent further spread of these devastating diseases.”
In line with the council’s established policy for managing elm disease, felling will include both infected and deteriorating trees, along with neighbouring elms which are likely to be affected through their interconnected root systems. Some of these trees may appear to be healthy.
The work will be undertaken in one phase to minimise disruption for the woodland, wildlife and park users, and to allow the site to recover quickly and should take around three weeks to complete.
A large proportion of the existing vegetation will remain, and the area will continue to be managed to help prevent regrowth developing from any infected root systems.
The Forestry Commission has been notified of the Council’s intention to undertake the works. The elm removals are being carried out under a felling licence exemption provided by the Forestry Act in relation to Elm Disease management.
All necessary ecological assessments will be undertaken prior to plans being finalised.
