Tree work to begin on Chapel Lane Formby

Vital tree works are to begin later this month along Chapel Lane, Formby.

The street tree management, which begins on Monday January 29, is expected to take around one week to complete.

Chapel Lane will be temporarily closed to vehicles while the works take place each day. The road will reopen to traffic during the evenings.

The works will also allow for the planting of seven new trees before the end of March 2018, with replacement trees expected to be a mix of species including non-fruiting horse chestnut.

A study of the Chapel Lane trees by Sefton’s Parks and Greenspaces team have found that five existing trees are in need of pruning works, while five horse chestnut trees were found to have severely declined in recent years.

They must be removed before they pose a significant health and safety risk.

A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “The condition of the five large horse chestnut trees has declined significantly over the past few years and sadly they will not recover.

“We have decided to remove them before they pose a more significant risk to the public

“It is always regrettable when we have to remove trees, especially such large, prominent trees that have been part of the landscape for many years.

“Sefton Council, along with ward and parish councillors, have secured funding to replace the trees.

“Seven new trees will be planted before the end of March 2018.

“We apologise in advance for any disturbance and inconvenience while the works are taking place.”