Storm Éowyn: Council urges Telford residents to report fallen trees after clearing hundreds within a month

Telford & Wrekin Council said its teams received 739 enquiries via the MyTelford app between December 7 and January 2, with many reports involving multiple trees which have fallen due to adverse weather conditions. 

The local authority said fallen and 'badly damaged' trees that are blocking roads and footpaths, or affecting parks and private properties, have been 'prioritised'.

Having previously been named a 'Tree City of the World' by the United Nations (UN) with an estimated 15 million trees in the borough, the council's teams and tree surgeons have their work cut out with an overwhelming number of reports.

And, with the number of incidents likely to rise in the next few days, residents are being asked to report any other obstructions through the MyTelford app.

Councillor Carolyn Healy, cabinet member for neighbourhoods, planning and sustainability, said: "A big thank you to our crews who are working every day to clear the debris caused by the storms just before Christmas.

"The scale of the damage has been unprecedented, and we understand the frustration residents are feeling. We appreciate your patience as the team continue to work through the backlog."

In just one day, Telford and Wrekin Council said one of its crews cleared 35 to 40 fallen trees along the length of the Silkin Way, and removed around 40 tonnes of wood.

Some trees were said to weigh between four and five tonnes and measure 40 to 50 metres in height.

The council said crews will be prioritising the "most dangerous situations" such as trees tangled with others and incidents which require specialised equipment such as winches, chippers, tractors, and mobile platforms to safely and efficiently remove them.

Arboriculture manager at Idverde who provide grounds maintenance servies, Michael Price added: "Storm Darragh was one of the most severe storms I’ve ever been involved in my career and then a second storm further weakened damaged trees, this combined with sodden ground making moving heavy machinery like chippers and trailers an incredibly challenging scenario.

"Clearing trees is complex process, and the safety of our teams and the public is a priority, but we are clearing debris as quickly and as safely as possible. We are committed to doing this work safely and efficiently.”

Once the clearing of fallen trees is complete, Telford & Wrekin Council said it will look at opportunities to replant new trees where needed, helping to restore the borough’s green spaces.

Councillor Carolyn Healy added: “Support from residents have been invaluable in helping prioritise the most urgent cases. Please continue to report any fallen or damaged trees.”