Highway hedge works coming up

There are some hedge and tree management works to be carried out later this month on some of the borough’s highways.

Essential safety management works will take place on sections of the hedge and tree line on the boundaries of Bromsgrove and Warwick Highway.

This is to address issues of Ash Dieback diseased trees and top-heavy hedge lines that are beginning to collapse into the verge or overhang the carriageway, blocking signage, lighting, and getting hit by lorries.

The first part of the work is due to take place on the section of Bromsgrove Highway on the 21^st October between the Windmill Drive and Foxlydiate part of the highway.

Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Biodiversity, Cllr. Jen Snape, said: “The safety of our residents, especially when involving vehicle safety, must always take priority over everything else, but decisions to lower trees and hedges are not being taken lightly.”

“I am aware that trees are an emotive topic for many residents in Redditch and have been listening to residents' concerns about recent tree works. There is always an open offer from senior officers to carry out site visits in order to provide clarity on planned works, whether that be maintenance or replanting trees for the future." 

The second part of the works will be carried out on Warwick Highway on 23^rd October between the Old Forge Drive and Studley Road exits during the second phase of the annual landscape highway management.

Ash Dieback (or Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a serious fungal disease that affects Ash trees. It causes leaf loss, branch dieback, and ultimately tree death.

Infected trees can become structurally weakened, posing a public safety risk due to falling branches or even entire trees. While the disease itself does not affect humans or animals, it is important that we take action to prevent potential safety hazards.

We understand that any work like this may prompt questions, so if you would like more information about the tree removals, please contact our team at: tree-enquiries@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk