Diversions will be in place
Oakridge Lane on the A38(Image: Google Street View)
A section of a major road into Bristol is set to be closed for four days later this month. A section of the A38 between Oakridge Lane and Shipham Lane will be closed from Monday, January 12 for four days between the hours of 9am and 3.30pm as the council carries out essential tree works.
The section of the A38, which lies between Weston-super-Mare and Cheddar, is popular for commuters into Bristol. North Somerset Council have said that the trees across this area have been infected with the incurable ash dieback disease and need to be felled for safety reasons.
Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Community Services and Safety, said: “Ash dieback, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, is now widespread across Britain and poses a serious threat to our native ash trees. With up to 90% of ash trees at risk and no known cure, this disease is reshaping our landscapes.
“In North Somerset, we are working tirelessly to manage its effects and protect our environment for future generations.”
The closure applies not only to drivers but also to cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians. Diversion routes and signs will be place throughout the closure.
Ash trees are the third most common type of tree nationwide. However, the Woodland Trust fears that up to 80% will be killed by ash dieback.
The charity went on to estimate that ash dieback could come with a price tag of £15 billion for the UK, including the cost of felling the trees and the cost of worsening air pollution caused by losing the trees. Dying trees can also pose safety issues as they may fall on someone.
There is no currently no cure for ash dieback. However, reporting a tree with the disease can help slow the spread.
A tree with ash dieback might have discoloured or black leaves, as well as dark brown and diamond-shaped lesions on the spot where the branches meet the trunk. If you spot a tree that you think might be infected, you can this on Tree Alert.
You can get updates on road closures across North Somerset online.