Council calls on landowners to check wind damaged trees

8th November 2010

Following a night of severely windy weather The Highland Council is encouraging landowners to check trees and vegetation near to public roads which have been damaged by the gales.

Landowners are being asked to check for damage to their trees and to remove debris from roads or footways 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 weakened or damaged branches could subsequently fall on vehicles or pedestrians.

"During last night's gale force conditions wind-damaged trees caused the B862 road to be blocked at Dores Hill and Council staff are working to clear it. Council staff have already cleared the immediate road blocks at Strontian, A831 Aigas corner, B862 Errogie corner, A832 East of Gairloch and some minor problems in the Nairn area.

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 886601 or their local Highland Council Roads and Community Works Office at:

* Golspie tel: 01408 635307
* Wick tel: 01955 607737
* Inverness tel: 01463 703111
* Kingussie tel: 01540 664925
* Nairn tel: 01667 458542
* Fort William tel: 01397 709000
* Dingwall tel: 01349 868440
* Portree tel: 01478 612727