Action to Tackle Ash Dieback

West Sussex County Council News Release

For the sake of public safety, action continues to be taken to remove trees affected by Ash Dieback along West Sussex major road network.

Ash Dieback is a highly destructive disease which, sadly, is predicted to kill up to 95 per cent of our Ash trees in this country: leaves start to wilt/die, trees become weak and brittle and have the potential to shed branches or even fall.

In the 2022/2023 felling season (September 2022 to March 2023, dependant on seasonal weather conditions and subsequent bird nesting) WSCC shall be working on the following major roads, amongst other sites and routes within the County:

• A24 – Southwater area • A281 – Horsham to the county boundary

Private landowners are strongly advised to check their trees for signs of Ash Dieback. If dark coloured, dead leaves are present among live foliage, this is an indication that Ash Dieback could be taking hold. If the crown of your Ash tree is looking thin and bare, suspect Ash Dieback disease.

The Tree Council has produced a downloadable Ash Dieback Guide, with pictures, for homeowners and those with Ash trees on their land https://treecouncil.org.uk/.../ash-dieback/public-guidance/

For people without online access, the Tree Council can be contacted on 0207 4079992.

If still concerned or unsure, Ash tree owners should seek advice from a qualified arboriculturist https://www.trees.org.uk/Find-a-professional

People without online access can contact the Arboricultural Association on 01242 522152 for a list of approved contractors in the local area.