Infected trees in the grounds of a crematorium are due to be felled.
Brighton and Hove City Council’s arboriculture team has found a number of ash trees infected by ash dieback, a fungal disease which can kill trees, in the grounds of Woodvale Crematorium.
The trees, which are in and around the cemetery, are due to be felled and people have been warned to avoid the area while they are cut down.
Ash dieback is impossible to contain and leads to early leaf loss and crown dieback, which can be fatal.
It also makes trees more susceptible to pests and pathogens and increases the risk of them falling down.
The council currently has a city-wide plan to control the disease, which involves felling the trees but leaving them on site to restore nutrients to the area.
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Wildlife surveys are also being conducted and the ecological impact of works is considered and minimised where possible.
Ash trees make up approximately 20 percent of Brighton and Hove’s trees, with a high number of them infected by ash dieback.
Woodvale Crematorium, the only council-run crematorium, is currently closed for all services and cremations until September 11 while repairs to the north vestry roof take place.
Councillor Alan Robins, cabinet member for sports and recreation, said: “This is a fortunate opportunity to carry out this vital tree felling while the crematorium is closed so it won’t disturb the peace during services.
“While it’s sad to see the loss of Ash trees, once infected there’s nothing we can do, so we need to remove them to ensure they don’t become a danger to people.”
Maintenance is also being carried out in the two chapels at Woodvale, with an upgraded sound system and TV screens due to be installed, as well as road repairs and additional work in the grounds.
Woodvale Lodge, the Garden of Remembrance and the Hall of Memory remain open to visitors.
The council hopes to hold an open day at the Grade II listed building once the cemetery is reopened for residents to see the completed works.
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