West Lothian roads to be closed for tree felling work

West Lothian roads are set to undergo tree felling work, causing potential closures and traffic control measures in the coming weeks. The felling, focused on addressing the issue of Ash Dieback, will primarily take place on minor roads around Linlithgow over a two-month period. West Lothian’s countryside officers have scheduled tree felling at various sites, including areas from Ecclesmachan to Bathgate, with closures expected to last between one to four days.

While the targeted roads are mainly B and C roads, many of them serve as primary routes for local residents travelling to and from Linlithgow. One significant closure will be on the C19 route from Beecraigs to Dechmont, which is scheduled for a four-day closure starting on Monday, January 13. The tree felling work will commence next week, with the first site at the B9080 at Kingscavil on December 2.

During the months of July to September, the council’s Trees and Woodland Team conducted a survey to assess the prevalence of Ash Dieback disease in the region. Over 5000 trees were re-surveyed during this period to monitor the disease’s progression on B, C, and U roads, as well as open spaces and urban areas. Following this survey, felling and safety works began in mid-October in urban areas, with roadside work scheduled for the winter months.

West Lothian Council remains committed to surveying and monitoring ash trees across the county, both on council-owned land and private properties where trees pose a risk to council assets. Regular surveys are conducted, primarily during the summer months, to monitor the health of the trees. Updates on the tree felling work can be found on the council’s website to keep residents informed of any closures or disruptions.

In summary, West Lothian is gearing up for tree felling work to combat Ash Dieback disease, which will involve road closures and traffic control measures on minor roads around Linlithgow. The proactive approach taken by the council in surveying and monitoring affected trees demonstrates their commitment to maintaining the region’s natural landscape while ensuring public safety.

Insights and Summary:
The planned tree felling work in West Lothian highlights the proactive measures being taken to address the impact of Ash Dieback disease on the region’s trees. By conducting thorough surveys and implementing targeted felling programmes, the council is not only safeguarding the environment but also ensuring the safety of residents who use these roads. The updates provided on the council’s website indicate transparency and communication with the public, helping to minimise any inconveniences caused by the necessary road closures. This article illustrates the importance of proactive tree management to preserve the natural beauty of West Lothian while tackling the challenges posed by tree diseases.