Decision details

Ash Dieback (caused by the fungus, Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) is a fatal disease of ash trees. It was first identified in the UK in 2012 and has now spread to most areas of the country. The disease leads to rapid tree decline, resulting in risk of tree failure. We are procuring mitigation, to ensure that unreasonable risks along highways and in areas with high public usage are thoroughly mitigated.

The decision maker has approved the recommendations set out in the report attached with effect from the decision date.

1.  Chief Officer Financial Services to approve the injection of £1.33 million into Capital Scheme 33911\000\000 ASH DIE BACK (funded from General Contingencies).

2.  Director Communities, Housing and Environments to approve the spend of £1.33 million on the implementation of essential health and safety work linked to managing initial identifiable risk associated with Ash Dieback in Leeds; including the removal of high-risk trees and the further investigation of risk linked to the highway network in Leeds. The funding will also allow the creation of an Ash Dieback Core Team to manage the Programme and associated contracts, plus the implementation of an Ash Dieback Communications Strategy.

3.  Extensive survey work on the highway network has already been undertaken and a decision has been taken to continue this work during the autumn of 2024. Work on site is schedule to commence early in 2025.

Full process of communication – relevant Council departments (e.g. H&T), ward members, members of public, Forestry Commission etc.