There are a number of tree works currently being undertaken throughout Torbay and we would like to clarify why this is being done and also like to emphasise that we never make the decision lightly to remove a tree.

Tree or vegetation clearance work has to be undertaken during nesting season. This involves a pre-works survey which is carried out by a specialist. As a general rule, it should be assumed that birds will be nesting in trees and it is down to the contractors to assess, record and confirm that any works carried out regarding the management of trees and other vegetation has not disturbed actively nesting birds. Works will only continue when all signs of nesting birds are clear but the site and be constantly monitored during the working period.

Cleveland Road 

These trees are being re-pollarded not cut down, one tree is also having a detailed climbing inspection which requires a sky lift.

Once you cut a tree back to a pollard point, you put it into a cutting cycle. The re-growth points are never as strong as the original growth points. With this in mind, after a certain amount of growth and as a safety precaution we cut back to the pollard points. Pollarding is a way to maintain tree stock and size to prevent trees being cut down.

Hele Road/Truro Avenue

At this site, four trees are being felled due to being dead and diseased due to Ash Dieback. The decision was made to remove the trees for safety reasons to neighbouring properties, pedestrians, highway and structure of the boundary wall. Works have currently been halted due a nesting bird being identified but the team plan to return to the site and finish once all signs of nesting birds are clear.

Arcadia Road

This particular tree may look healthy, however, on inspection it was found to be diseased with bleeding canker and numerous stem bleeds around the stem from the base up. A sound assessment with mallet indicated large areas of dysfunctional tissue. It also showed signs of Honey Fungus on the north-west quarter of the stem.

For more information on this process visit the pollarding page.