DECISIONS require to be made about the future of Corrie Road Woods in Lockerbie — with 18 trees declared to be in a dangerous state.
A detailed report on the woodland, which is located on the edge of the town, has been prepared for members of the Lockerbie Common Good Fund Committee, who are meeting later this month.
It reveals of the 207 trees, 18 are dead or dying and should be removed within three months; while 33 are recommended for moderate work within a year, such as reductions or dead wood removal.
Overall, they make up 25 per cent of the entire woodland.
The rest are deemed low risk, but some may benefit from ivy or dead wood removal.
It is also recommended that Scottish Power are notified of dead wood hanging over some of their power lines.
A tree surgeon believes that “upon completion of any recommended works, the trees shall be in an acceptable condition from a safety perspective.”
However, he advises they should be inspected on a regular basis in case their condition deteriorates, and especially after storms or very windy weather.
The report, prepared by council officials, also raises concerns about continued public use of the woods, saying: “Signage has been installed around the site, indicating a clear message of “Do Not Enter”. The signage is regularly checked to ensure its still in situ and remains clear and legible.
“However, through local intelligence, it’s become clear that that signage is being ignored, with at least two instances of the woods being used – for a litter pick within the woods and the construction of a “den” within the woods, presumably by young local citizens.
“The site remains dangerous to those who enter. To further note, it would be near impossible to prevent access to the woods given the many opportunities for citizens to enter.”
It is further stated that the condition of the woods is having a negative impact on neighbours, including the adjoining farm and the golf club. Both parties have told officials that they would welcome maintenance and would look favourably in working with contractors on site.
A total of £6000 has already been spent by the Common Good Committee in the last few years securing the wood and quotes have now been received for the next batch of work: the fencing would range from £820-£1250, while it would cost about £13,000 for tree maintenance and surgery.
Now it will be up to the Common Good councillors to decide the way forward from one of three options. They can do nothing but with the warning that further trees are likely to fall and the site remains unsafe and a danger to those entering the wood. The council’s legal services are advising against this approach.
Or, they could opt for limited maintenance and remove only the most dangerous trees, but costs would be relatively high.
The final choice is a three year maintenance plan, taking a phased and measured approach, again at considerable cost.
The committee meeting will take place on May 21 in Lockerbie Town Hall and is open to interested members of the public. It will also be screened online.
