Three willow trees with extensive basal decay, usually caused by wood-destroying fungi, will be felled on Riverside Drive in Rickmansworth next week, forcing a daytime lane closure near the Ebury Way Play Area. Three Rivers District Council confirmed the essential works are scheduled for Thursday 9 July and Friday 10 July, with the worst disruption confined to the first day.
On Thursday 9 July, contractors will close one lane opposite the allotments and operate two-way traffic lights from 9:30am until 3:30pm. Two further willow trees will be pruned as part of the same programme, though no traffic management is planned for Friday 10 July, when the remaining work will be completed without lane restrictions. Marshals will supervise the shared cycle and footpath on both days.
The three condemned trees are suffering from extensive basal decay caused by wood-destroying fungi that undermines their physical stability. Councillor Aidan Bentley, Lead Member for Climate Change and Sustainability, said: “While it is always sad to see a tree felled, it is essential that these three willow trees are removed in order to protect other nearby trees from this spreadable disease as well as the public from the degrading wood which poses a health and safety risk.” The permit, listed under reference FM05998713861-01 on the Hertfordshire County Council roadworks map, forms part of the district’s routine tree management programme.
The council’s wider Tree Strategy 2022-2027 commits to protecting and sustainably managing woodlands across the district, including enforcement against illegal felling. Only last month, the authority successfully prosecuted a company for axing 13 mature trees in Chorleywood without permission, securing a £14,040 fine and an order to replant 30 trees. Motorists using Riverside Drive during the morning and afternoon peaks on 9 July should expect delays and are advised to allow extra time.
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