THE public has been told to stay away from forests in the north of England amid concern over hanging trees.
Forestry England chiefs have urged people to avoid a huge swath of their land as they work to clear up the damage caused by Storm Arwen at the weekend.
With uprooted trees, loose branches, downed power lines and blocked access in many parts of the country, priority is being given to those who live and work in woods by restoring power and access.
READ MORE: Storm Arwen: Surge in felling applications expected
A similar warning was earlier sounded by Scottish Forestry chiefs, who will meet tomorrow to discuss whether or not to instigate the Scottish Windblow Action Committee (SWAC).
Kevin May, forest management director for North England, said: "This was a very significant storm and it’s caused a lot of damage. Our immediate concern is for people who live and work in the forest and we are working intensively to restore some kind of normality.
"Many of our woodlands will still be dangerous and are simply not safe for visitors at the moment. There is also the risk from hanging trees – those that have been blown over, but have been caught on other trees. These can fall with little or no warning."
Forests including Thrunton Woods, Kidland, Harbottle and Simonside near Rothbury, Kielder, Hamsterley and Chopwell, plus Grizedale Forest and Gisburn in the north west, have been badly affected by the sorms.
Over the next few days Forestry England will carry out an aerial survey of its 90,000 hectares (222,000 acres) of land in northern England to assess Arwen’s impact and map the worst affected areas.
Kielder alone covers 63,000 hectares (155,000 acres) and is the nation’s largest forest.
In some areas harvesting machines are being used to clear trees from highways. Forestry England staff have also been checking on residents who live in remote areas and providing assistance where required.
READ MORE: Storm Arwen: People warned to stay away from Scottish forests
Once woodlands are made safe, a major clear up operation will begin and a full assessment of the damage made. This is likely to take some months. Plans will then be drawn up for long-term recovery to ensure the region’s forests continue to flourish for people, wildlife and the economy.
Kevin added: "Our message is to stay clear for the time-being and that will speed the recovery. Our website, forestryengland.uk, will be kept up to date with the latest information."
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