A-road to close for four days for tree works

A section of an A-road will close for four days to allow for diseased ash trees to be felled.

The A38 in Winscombe, Somerset, will be closed between Oakridge Lane and Shipham Lane from Monday 12 until Thursday 16 January, between 09.30 and 15.30 GMT each day.

North Somerset Council said there had been a "rapid decline" in the health of the trees meaning urgent action is needed to remove them.

Councillor Mike Solomon said: "We are working tirelessly to manage [ash dieback] effects and protect our environment for future generations."

Ash dieback, which is a fungal disease, has wiped out thousands of ash trees in the UK since it arrived in 2012 and councils have a legal duty to ensure trees under their care are safe.

No traffic will be allowed to pass in either direction while the work on the A38 is carried out to ensure the safety of the workforce and the public.

Diversion routes will be in place and the public are asked to follow diversion signage.

Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for culture, community services and safety, added: "Ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is now widespread across Britain and poses a serious threat to our native ash trees.

"With up to 90% of ash trees at risk and no known cure, this disease is reshaping our landscapes."

Recently, in the neighbouring county of Somerset, Somerset Council agreed to spend £2.2m on tree care over the next four years.

The Mendip and Quantock hills are among the areas that have been particularly affected by the spread of the disease.

However, last year, new scientific evidence found Ash trees were fighting back against the infection.

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