Warnings logs are spreading deadly tree disease in Brighton and Hove

We're being urged to take extra care when transporting timber

Author: Ryan BurrowsPublished 1st Oct 2024

A countryside charity has warned that logs and timber being brought into Brighton and Hove are playing a part in increasing incidences of a deadly disease.

CPRE Sussex has issued an urgent warning calling for people to take simple steps following suspected infections linked to log piles.

60 trees in Peacock Lane and nine trees near Seven Dials were recently lost to the illness, which can be spread by fungus and beetles nesting in logs and timber.

Over the past five years hundreds of trees in Brighton & Hove have been lost to elm disease.

The charity has said that controlling the spread of the infection would help to save the city more than £39 million.

CPRE Sussex director Paul Steedman said:

"Elm disease has devastated elms across the world making Brighton & Hove’s trees, including the National Elm Collection, even more valuable.

"However, logs brought into the city are now killing much-loved street trees and threatening years of careful management.

"We urge everyone to think about the logs and timber they are buying and take simple steps to protect our elms for future generations."

To help protect Brighton & Hove’s elms:

• Make sure the logs you are buying are not elm. Ash, maple, apple and birch are all fine.

• Buy from a reputable dealer. Ask what kind of wood your logs are and where they are from.

• Do not be tempted to buy cheap wood from outside the city where infection is rife.

• If you have a log pile which you are worried might contain elm, contact the council to have it inspected.

• If an elm on or near your property is damaged or has fallen call the council to collect and dispose of it safely.

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