Derbyshire Plans Road Closures for Tree Removal

Derbyshire County Council is set to remove infected ash trees along the Via Gellia Road between Cromford and Newhaven due to ash dieback, which poses a risk to road users. The road will experience closures at various points from January 27 until the end of February to facilitate the tree felling, which will involve removing all ash trees within 20 meters of the road. The council has noted that a significant area has been affected by the disease, which has weakened branches and created hazards. To minimize disruption, the closures will be implemented in phases, with complete road closures on weekdays and a single lane open overnight. Replacement trees are planned to be planted next winter after the felling is completed. The council has coordinated the approach with Natural England and the Forestry Commission.