Works start to remove A24 Ash dieback trees
Parts of the road will be closed for the next few weeks
Essential works start today to remove Ash trees on the A24 as part of West Sussex County Council's plan.
The Ash Dieback infection and potential for branches to fall into the road could pose a risk to drivers.
Ash Dieback is a highly destructive disease which is predicted to kill up to 95 per cent of Ash trees in this county.
To keep the road network safe, the County Council needs to fell severely infected trees.
Removing them will open the area to light and allow natural regeneration of trees from the existing seed source.
Felling works have been ongoing on sections of the A24, with new dates now scheduled.
Dates have also been programmed for works on the A286 and A29, all subject to factors such as severe weather:
- 19th to 21st April: A24 Southbound from Washington Roundabout
- 22nd to 23rd April: A24 Northbound, Glaseby Lane to Washington Roundabout
- 26th to 30th April: A24 Northbound from Hop Oast Roundabout
- 4th to 5th May: A286 Binderton Lane to Church Lane, West Dean
- 6th to 7th May: A29 Fairmile Bottom at Madehurst
All of the above will involve night-time closures of the sections of road involved and signed diversions.
10th to 11th May, a lane will be closed and temporary traffic lights in place for work on the A29 Northbound at Slindon.
An ornithologist will carry out a survey of each site before work starts to ensure no nesting birds are disturbed.
Under the Highway Act 1980, West Sussex County Council has a legal duty as a highway authority to ensure the road network remains safe for all users.