Peterborough City Council Seeks Public Input on Ash Dieback Management in Bretton Woods

Peterborough City Council is inviting public feedback regarding its proposals to address a tree disease affecting a woodland area. The council has identified ash dieback as a “particular concern” within Bretton Woods. Officials reported that an assessment revealed the continued progression of the disease, which damages shoots, branches, and trunks, leading to the demise of most affected trees, potentially rendering the woods “dangerous.” The council is encouraging residents to provide their input on plans for the removal of infected trees. A spokesperson stated that an evaluation, conducted as part of a woodland management strategy, had verified the “further spread of ash dieback.” They further explained that the strategy involves clearing diseased trees and a “small area around them” to establish an open space. This cleared section would subsequently be reforested with a “wider range of native broadleaved trees.” Additionally, trees posing a “health and safety concern” are slated for removal. The spokesman affirmed, “Comments from residents will be considered and included, where possible, prior to the implementation of the next phase of the plan.” He also noted, “In addition, the city council will be required to submit a felling licence application to the Forestry Commission prior to works commencing.” The spokesperson indicated that residents have the opportunity to participate in a survey. Angus Ellis, Peterborough City Council’s cabinet member for the environment and transport, commented: “We have been monitoring the spread of ash dieback at Bretton Woods since 2013. “It’s a particular concern in this area, as ash trees make up the majority of all three woods.“Action needs to be taken as it is likely that the woods will become too dangerous for public access.” He further stated: “Alternative approaches to those specified within the plan would potentially have a significant landscape impact or significantly restrict public access to the site alongside, causing a marked deterioration of wildlife habitats within the woods.”