Cumberland Council has informed residents of upcoming tree maintenance on the A595 following a recent survey of the area's Resilient Road Networks.

Several Ash Trees alongside the major route reportedly require attention.

While some specific trees will need immediate felling, others require further care or ongoing checks.

Council representatives are collaborating with parish and town councils, alongside landowners who possess affected Ash Trees, which may become potential hazards.

Their combined efforts aim to ensure these trees are managed correctly to prevent risk to individuals or property.

As part of the shared initiative, landowners will be assisted in liaising with suitable companies to manage the infected trees, thereby avoiding any risks to people or buildings.

The work will focus on preventing issues associated with Ash Dieback, an infection that affects Ash trees (Fraxinus ssp.), considered the worst tree disease since the Dutch Elm outbreak of the 1970s that decimated mature Elms in the UK.

Over the next ten years, it's anticipated that up to 90 per cent of all UK Ash trees will succumb to Ash Dieback necessitating large scale tree removal.

Infected trees can break or fall unexpectedly, necessitating removal by heavy machinery for operative safety.

In a statement, the council reassured residents that felling is a last resort, only undertaken when a tree is dead, dying, diseased or hazardous.

The Highways Team, which has been monitoring Ash Dieback on the A595, will fell deceased trees as the next step.

Those residing in areas directly impacted by removal will receive letters from the council's contractor.

The document will provide in-depth explanations about the rationale behind the removal.

The council extends its appreciation to the community for their support and patience during these essential works on the A595.

They have also apologised for any inconvenience caused by the operations.

For additional information about Ash Dieback or to seek guidance on spotting it, residents are encouraged to visit the Woodland Trust website.

Meanwhile, landowners requiring further assistance following receipt of a felling letter should either visit the council's website or contact Cumbria Highways.