Ash dieback management
Ash dieback is a fungal disease which can lead to the death of trees. Over the coming years, it is anticipated that this will result in a loss of around 80% of all ash trees in the UK.
It can also leave trees weakened, unsafe and more susceptible to other pathogens such as honey fungus (which can then rapidly accelerate the tree's decline).
Across the country, there is ongoing work to ensure that all trees are as safe as possible. The work undertaken in North Northamptonshire has been carefully considered, follows national guidance and has involved consultation with experts.
Our response
We are going to remove any trees in areas which pose a high health and safety risk or that have the potential to fall and damage other trees.
We want to take a considered approach by removing individual infected trees from sites where they pose a risk to the public.
This work has started in some of our open spaces and woodland sites such as King’s Wood Local Nature Reserve, Irchester Country Park and East Carlton Country Park.
Within woodlands, the removal of these trees will allow more sunlight will reach the woodland floor and encourage new growth which will support butterflies and other invertebrates.
This management process will not only make the woodland safer, but also provides more diversity and encourages a wider variety of wildlife in the area.
Timber
Timber from trees removed due to ash dieback is not a threat to other species and will have a high habitat value. Within woodlands and other appropriate sites, timber will be cut down into 1 to 2 metre lengths and stacked up to create a log pile. By doing this, we create habitat providing a microclimate for wildlife, such as newts, invertebrates and small mammals. The piles also create a safe space for hibernation.
We are Woodsure approved and felled timber can also be split, seasoned and sold as firewood creating income for conservation projects. It may also be repurposed on some sites by our education rangers to lead fire lighting or cooking activities with school groups.
Replanting
For every individual tree felled on North Northamptonshire Council land, at least 1 replacement tree will be planted within the North Northamptonshire area.
In some cases, it may not be appropriate to replant in the same area as the removed tree - planting will take place elsewhere in the interest of sustainability.
Where trees in woodland are removed and there is suitable natural regeneration, this regeneration will be managed appropriately to ensure that it adequately replaces felled trees, rather than introducing new trees.
All planting work will be carried out in accordance with our tree planting strategy.
Last updated 05 February 2025