Emergency tree incidents have continued to be reported following the high winds, including over the weekend.
Clear up work is well underway, including the major task of removing mature trees from roads, pavements and parks across the borough.
Including the most recent stormy weather, since Storm Eunice, there have now been in excess of 300 tree related incidents, causing damage across the borough and resulting in roads being closed for a period of time.
As the high winds continue and with the potential for yet more tree damage to be discovered, residents are being reminded to report ‘tree fall emergencies’ by phone for priority. Residents and visitors are also asked to respect road and other closures, plus areas taped off for safety, a tree leaning precariously may not be immediately obvious but with the continuing high winds there is a risk they could fall at any time.
Councillor William Huntington-Thresher, Executive Councillor for Environment said, “Our borough is known for its trees and the magnificence they bring. In absolute terms, the number of trees that have been blown over is relatively small compared to the numbers of street trees we have, but nevertheless, it is sad to know that we have lost a number of mature trees. In some of the examples, it was nothing short of miraculous that people were not seriously injured.”
Councillor Huntington-Thresher continued, “A big thank you to our tree team crews who have responded magnificently to this almost unprecedented situation. Thank you too to residents who have taken the time to report fallen trees and to our street cleaning teams clearing the branches and detritus the storms left us. Our parks were open at the weekend albeit with some areas taped off for safety but it is still possible that not all dangerous trees have been discovered and therefore please continue to report problems you come across.”
Whilst the extreme high winds have eased, residents are still being reminded that they can still report ‘tree fall emergencies’ 24/7, with advice to call the council for emergency reports that need priority. Whereas most problems can be reported online, via the council’s website, which is usually the best reporting method, if there has been a tree emergency, where a tree is blocking a road or leaning precariously for instance, then residents and others are being asked to report this by calling the council on 0300 303 8658.
Many of the trees have fallen from private property, from nearby gardens, onto the road or pavement. In these instances, then the council has responded to the emergency situation at the time and will be in contact with the owner of the tree at a later date.
ENDS
For media enquires please contact Andrew Rogers, Head of Public Affairs, on 020 8461 7670 or email andrew.rogers@bromley.gov.uk