We were recently contacted by Lennoxlove Estate who are planning some proposed maintenance work for Strawberry Wood in East Saltoun. As such, East Saltoun based community councillors Mike and Danny met with Forester Will Marshall to discuss the works.

The estate are looking to deal with the failing ash trees within the woods by carrying out a thinning operation that will look to remove the worst ash trees and other potentially dangerous trees, meanwhile opening up the canopy and allowing some more light onto the forest floor. They have also had some complaints of trees on boundaries with neighbours in Burnet Crescent so would be looking to remove those as well.

There will need to be a path closure on the main path during the works, but a diversion through the woods will be set up on an alternative route and banks men will be in place when tree felling is happening to make sure trees are felled safely.

They are aiming to get works underway in the second half of September/early October and would hope to have it all complete within a month. They assure us that they will not be unnecessarily removing healthy trees and aim to make sure wildlife (Bats, Badgers and Birds) are protected and that access is well managed during the works.

The plan drawing indicates where the felled timber will be stacked during the works, and some temporary traffic lights are likely to be required to South Crescent whilst work is undertaken on trees along the southern edge of the woods.

If there are any queries or issues during the works themselves please let us know and we will liaise with the foresters.