Work to fell diseased trees at a West Berkshire beauty spot will begin next week.
The Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) said it will be carrying out the “essential tree-felling work” at its flagship Nature Discovery Centre site.
The Nature Discovery Centre will be closed while the trees are felled (pic by Pete Hughes)
Ash trees at the Thatcham reserve have been affected by ash dieback, which is a serious disease that weakens trees and increases the risk of them falling or losing branches.
BBOWT, which manages the site, said the work was being carried out “to ensure the safety of its visitors and protect the surrounding area”.
Senior land manager for Berkshire at BBOWT, Tom Hayward, said: “We understand this will alter the appearance of the site, but we’re committed to restoring it.
Trees suffering from ash die back (pic by Debbie Lewis)
“We’re conscious that these kinds of changes can be unsettling, and we want to provide reassurance that this maintenance work will be carried out to safeguard the future of the site.
“We are working closely with our wonderful local volunteers to ensure that our replanting efforts include a variety of different tree species which will help to prevent future diseases, so that wildlife here continues to thrive for years to come.”
The work is due to take place from Monday (January 6) until Friday, January 17 and has been scheduled for this time to help minimise disruption to wildlife.
Ash trees at sunset, captured by Ben Porter
While the work is carried out the Nature Discovery Centre, including the car park, paths and playground, will all be closed.
BBOWT said plans were already underway to plant new trees, with the help of the local community, “ensuring the area remains a haven for nature and visitors”.