Urgent Tree Work Scheduled for Coldean Woods

Urgent tree work to remove dead and diseased ash trees in Coldean Woods is set to begin on 19 January, Brighton & Hove City Council has confirmed. The work is part of ongoing efforts to manage ash dieback disease and will take place alongside preparations for a planned footpath improvement project. The project aims to […]

Urgent tree work to remove dead and diseased ash trees in Coldean Woods is set to begin on 19 January, Brighton & Hove City Council has confirmed.

The work is part of ongoing efforts to manage ash dieback disease and will take place alongside preparations for a planned footpath improvement project. The project aims to improve the public right of way linking Coldean with Stanmer Park and is being funded by a grant from the South Downs National Park Authority.

Many of the ash trees lining the footpath – which runs from opposite the Ruby pub up the hill to the lower A27 bypass bridge – are affected by the disease and must be removed before improvement work can start. Tree felling will be carried out by experienced forestry contractors using specialist heavy machinery.

While the focus is on ash trees, a small number of non-ash native species may also be removed where necessary for safety or infection control reasons.
Due to the tree felling and subsequent footpath improvements, two sections of the footpath will be closed for approximately seven to eight weeks from 19 January. The council has apologised for any inconvenience caused.

During the closure, walkers are advised to use the alternative route beside Denman Close, crossing the upper A27 footbridge, or to walk along the park frontage beside A270 Lewes Road and Stoneymere Way. Signage will be in place to guide pedestrians.

Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet Member responsible for parks, said the removal of trees was necessary despite concerns from residents. He explained that once the work is completed, the upgraded footpath will provide long-term benefits for local people and park users.

He also confirmed that ecologists will be on site to minimise disturbance to wildlife, including badgers, nesting birds and roosting bats. Where possible, tree trunks and stumps will be left in place to create valuable habitats and support biodiversity in the woods.

Once the tree work is complete, footpath improvements will begin. This will include installing a grid system with a stone and grit surface to improve access and reduce slipperiness, particularly during wet weather.

Residents seeking more information or support during the works can contact cityparks@brighton-hove.gov.uk or call 01273 294349 during office hours, Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5pm.