Network Rail Wales & Borders is carrying out its biggest ever tree survey to identify and safely remove as many hazardous trees alongside the railway as possible. The task, which began in summer 2020, is expected to take around two years to complete and involves the inspection of almost 1,000 miles of track.
The main concern of Network Rail’s environmental specialists is the presence of ‘ash dieback’: a fungal disease that scientists predict will threaten up to 80% of the species. A Europe-wide problem, the fungus prevents water and nutrients from flowing throughout ash trees and causes the tree to slowly die.
To help prevent the spread of ash dieback, Network Rail tree surgeons will work to remove only the infected ash trees, allowing the genetically resistant ones to flourish and repopulate the species; less competition means more light and space for the healthy trees to grow.
To maintain and increase biodiversity, the teams will leave the trunks of the removed trees to become homes for roosting bats and more than 62 species of lichen; three of which are endangered.
Network Rail is also looking at replanting schemes on their land to establish native species with ‘high-habitat value’ and aim to match the number of trees removed.
“Our top priority is safety, so removing these trees succumbing to ash dieback is crucial in order to protect the line, our passengers and staff,” said Asset Engineer, Mitchell Pether, at Network Rail.
“We also want to minimise disruption for passengers and freight users while maintaining our green corridor, so this isn’t just about cutting down every lineside tree, it’s a targeted and proactive approach that will protect the line and increase biodiversity.”
Natural Resources Wales is in support of the survey being carried out by Network Rail. Andrew Wright, Specialist Advisor at Natural Resources Wales, said:
“Ash Dieback is one of the most significant tree diseases to affect the Welsh landscape, ash trees affected by this disease potentially pose a significant health and safety risk and we understand the measures taken by Network Rail to reduce the risks and welcome any work to recover lost biodiversity.”
