Highland Council Calls On Landowners To Check Snow Damaged Trees

26th January 2010

Following the recent spell of severe winter weather The Highland Council is encouraging landowners to check trees and vegetation near to public roads which have been damaged by the weight of snow.

Landowners are being asked to check that there are no weakened, damaged, bent or broken boughs suspended at height which may subsequently fall onto roads or footways and should make arrangements to have boughs removed and obstructions cleared without undue delay.

Richard Guest, Highland Council's Head of Roads and Community Works said: "Damaged trees and vegetation can cause potential hazards to road users by obstructing the passage of vehicles and pedestrians. We are particularly concerned where obstructions could impede people with visual difficulties.

"During the recent wintry conditions snow-damaged trees caused a significant obstruction to snow ploughs carrying out winter maintenance operations. We are keen to ensure that the same problems do not arise if there is further heavy snowfall."

Under Section 91 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 the Council may serve notice on landowners requiring them to take action to remove hazardous or obstructive vegetation. In extreme cases, where there is an imminent danger to the public the Council will take action and landowners will be liable for the cost.

For further information, members of the public requiring advice and guidance on this matter should contact the Council's Service Centre on 01349 886606 or their local Highland Council Roads and Community Works Office at:

� Golspie tel: 01408 63530

� Wick tel: 01955 607737

� Inverness tel: 01463 703111

� Kingussie / Nairn tel: 01540 664919

� Fort William tel: 01397 709000

� Dingwall tel: 01349 868440

� Portree tel: 01478 612727