‘Essential’ tree safety work to take place at Washington Copse
‘Essential’ tree safety work is set to take place at Washington Copse near Petworth.
The Leconfield Estates confirmed work to fell Ash trees dying from Chalara ash dieback at Washington Copse, Frog Farm, south-west of Petworth.
Chalara ash dieback, which causes dieback of the tree crown and, in most cases leads to the death of the tree, and in conjunction with other fungal attacks, such as Honey fungus, can cause the trees to decay and fall over.
The estate confirmed most of the affected ash trees, along with dying elm trees, will be felled.
Younger oak trees will be kept where possible to reduce the impact on the landscape and wildlife.
A spokesperson for Leconfield Estates said: “During the work, public access will not be permitted within the working areas for your own safety. We are hoping to carry out the work this September. Signage will notify you of work commencing. Some of the preparatory work may take place before the main felling. Please take care and keep away from felling and machines.
“We as the land owners representative, are aware these woods are used extensively and unofficially for public access and are concerned that a tree or branch may fall and injure someone.
"We are therefore intending to fell the ash trees and also most of the elm trees, which are also dying. Where there are clumps of younger oak, these will be retained to soften the landscape and wildlife impact.
"In order to fell the trees, we will have to cut the understorey and this will also enable us to replant the felled areas. Initially it will look messy but as soon as the felling and timber removal has taken place, we will remove all the remaining lop and top.
"The woodland may look untidy at first, but the remaining branches and debris will be cleared after the felling and timber removal. The felled areas will be replanted, and the woodland should begin to recover naturally over the next few years.
"This is not being done to make money. The work is being carried out to protect public safety and to look after the woodland for the future. A Forestry Commission felling licence is in place, and checks are being made for birds, bats and other protected species.
"If you have any questions about the work, please contact Neil Humphris, Leconfield Estates Head Forester.”