Disease and flooding behind controversial Welshpool tree cull

The controversial decision to chop down a large number of mature trees in the middle of nesting season was down to ash dieback and the flood risk they posed.

The Bull Dingle, just off Borfa Green in Welshpool, has been decimated by the work over the past month, drawing criticism from residents who lambasted Powys County Council.

The initial reason for it as a job that was “months in the planning” did not go down well with residents, so the council has made their situation clearer by explaining that they were left with no choice.

A spokesperson for Powys County Council told us: “The council is overseeing the removal of the trees at Bull Dingle due to ash dieback, a fungal infection that can cause trees to become brittle and liable to fall.

“There is also a culvert running through the Bull Dingle, which has been previously blocked by a fallen tree which led to flooding.

“While we never want to cut tree downs, the trees are diseased and could pose a risk of falling on nearby properties and to those who walk through the Bull Dingle if they are not removed in a safe manner.

“Properties adjacent to the tree at Bull Dingle were informed of the works along with the local county councillor.”

PICTURES courtesy of From Above - Drone Photography