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Dudley environmental boss promises to tackle problem trees

A Black Country environmental boss has pledged to help residents tackle problem trees.

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Dudley Council is launching a new scheme after it was revealed they received nearly 2,000 requests for tree inspections from residents in 2017/18.

Currently, inspectors have to prioritise trees that are of the highest risk of falling and causing injury – but council bosses hope the new scheme will assist in targeting additional work which residents have been telling them about.

The authority will aim to undertake work on trees identified as requiring an inspection in line with its tree strategy within 10 working days and to complete newly identified work prioritised with its Tree Risk Management Model within eight weeks.

Those with higher risk ratings will continue to take priority, but it is hoped the scheme will lead to increased work on council trees and more opportunities for action on trees with lower risk ratings.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for environmental services, said: "We want to support residents in tackling difficult trees. We have listened to the large numbers of people who have told us that this is causing them distress.

"For the first time, we have set timescales so residents will know when they can expect their concerns to be addressed.

"Trees are a big issue for residents and that is why it is our focus.

"We want to be able to help people and I look forward to seeing the positive results.”

The additional work is expected to start next month(Dec) subject to weather conditions.