Expert’s fears over trees
HALTON Council has responded to claims that some trees in Widnes are a danger to the public.
Widnes resident Alan Quinn, a former senior lecturer in horticulture and arboriculture has raised concerns that with autumn approaching, strong winds could cause heavy branches to fall.
Mr Quinn said: “I have noticed while driving around Widnes that there are a large number of trees in the town that require attention.
“It does not take long to see large overgrown forest trees with branches overhanging roadways, pathways and in some cases houses.
“Some are a potential danger, many lean to one side and are top heavy and imbalanced. Strong seasonal winds could bring down heavy branches, especially if parts of the tree are diseased.
“Does the council have a tree survey list of tree numbers and conditions of potential remedial work that is required? Halton Council have a duty of care by law to provide a safe environment for its residents.”
Mr Quinn named Hough Green Road, as well as Ditchfield Road and Dundalk Road as areas of particular concern.
A Halton spokesman said: “Our approach has been to do the higher risk areas first. This includes areas such as public parks and busy highways. The trees that have been surveyed are recorded within our tree management database, and from other inspections that are undertaken by our staff a works programme is in place.“ ●