‘Essential’ tree felling works are taking place in Worthing woodlands impacted by ash dieback.

Worthing Borough Council (WBC) said visitors to Cissbury Fields and The Gallops may notice contractors working in the woodlands ‘over the coming weeks’.

A WBC spokesperson said: “In recent years, we have been removing ash trees affected by ash dieback, a destructive fungal disease that is gradually killing ash across the UK and Europe. The disease weakens trees and causes crown dieback, eventually making affected trees unsafe.

“Ash is one of the most common tree species in West Sussex, so the impact of ash dieback on our local woodlands has been particularly significant. Our priority has been to remove trees that pose the greatest risk to visitors and keep woodland paths safe, while retaining those showing signs of good health.”

‘Essential’ tree felling works are taking place in Worthing woodlands impacted by ash dieback. Photo: WBC

placeholder image — ‘Essential’ tree felling works are taking place in Worthing woodlands impacted by ash dieback. Photo: WBC

Works were paused earlier this year to avoid disturbing nesting birds, and contractors have now returned to Sheepcombe Hanger to complete the remaining felling.

The council added: “Once the work at Cissbury Fields is complete, contractors will move onto The Gallops, where they will remove infected ash trees as well as elms affected by Dutch elm disease. Timber and brash from both woodlands will remain on site for the time being and will be processed and removed at a later date.

“We are committed to restoring and conserving these woodlands for future generations, and hundreds of new trees will be planted to replace losses.

"The replanting will include a wide variety of species, helping to create more diverse and resilient woodlands that are better able to withstand future diseases and environmental pressures.

“We will plant a variety of tree species at Sheepcombe Hanger this winter. Planting at The Gallops will take place next winter.

"This phased approach allows us to replace any losses from last winter’s planting at Sheepcombe Hanger, while also allowing us to monitor the new trees and assess whether watering may be needed again next year.”