Decision

Dunsfold Common (North) is a strip of woodland running north from Dunsfold and turning east towards Cranleigh. It is characterized by ash trees, many of which are affected by Ash Die Back. The Council is duty-bound to ensure that trees under its’ responsibility do not present an undue risk to people and property. This duty is discharged through the carrying out regular formal inspections of those trees under Council ownership which have potential to cause damage or harm in the event of failure.
The works covered under this contract were identified during formal inspection of trees on site, as being necessary to reduce the risk to a low (normal) level. Their completion will ensure that the Council complies with its legal obligations in respect of tree risk management.

Reasons for the decision

To enable the Council to fulfil its’ legal obligation to manage, and if necessary, reduce the risk to people and property presented by Council-owned trees. These works will protect the Council’s risk of litigation from foreseeable tree failure.

Alternative options considered

Alternative Options Considered: To not carry out the tree safety works. If this option were taken, there would be an increased risk of harm the Council would be exposed to the risk of litigation if harm or damage was caused by the foreseeable failure of Council-owned trees.