Fears for mass tree felling in Saltdean street quashed

Marie Walsh, who lives in Saltdean Vale, Saltdean, said it was “harrowing” watching the trees which lined the road being removed.

She said ten trees had recently been chopped down and residents were speculating more could follow.

“We identified some of these trees to be common hazel, extremely healthy and currently home to many species of birds and of course insect life. They have nests in them,” said Marie.

“So far ten trees have been cut down. They were about 50 to 100 years old, so once removed, where exactly will the bird life go?

“Plus, are we not meant to be conserving trees to clean our polluted city air? These trees could be the answer to air pollution and conserving wildlife habitats. It is harrowing to witness them being removed within hours.”

Marie is concerned about the loss of habitat (Image: Supplied)

But Brighton and Hove City Council says the trees were elms that had become infected with elm disease, so had to be removed.

“We work hard to protect the city’s tree population from pests and diseases, and prolong the lives of individual trees as much as is possible,” said council leader Bella Sankey.

“We currently have no further works planned for trees along Saltdean Vale.

“Any works in future would be in response to factors such as disease control, health and safety or access concerns following tree inspections, or events such as storm damage.

“Swift action to remove diseased elms is crucial to prevent an even greater spread of this disease within the city.

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“It’s always distressing to have to cut down beautiful trees and we understand the upset that residents feel about it.

“We have issues with ash dieback elsewhere in the city in woodland areas. But there are no ash street trees on Saltdean Vale.

“We always adhere to national wildlife legislation when carrying out work on the city’s trees.”