Action taken on off-roaders damaging woodland
Police and council officers are joining forces to tackle problems of off-roading by 4x4s, quad bikes and trail bikes on the Shropshire border.
The Ceiriog Valley near Chirk is one of the hot spots for the sports.
But Wrexham Council says woodland is being damaged and that some enthusiasts are even felling trees to get through the tracks.
It has teamed up with North Wales Police to monitor areas known for off-roading.
A council spokesman said: "Some people enjoy the more extreme activities such as off-roading in their 4×4 vehicles, quad bike racing and 'moto X' and get great pleasure out of it.
WBut please be aware if this is your type of activity, that some advertised events are not legal and may be causing untold damage to our countryside .
"We are becoming increasingly concerned of wilful damage being undertaken within some designated woodland areas which are subject to statutory protection in the form of a Tree Preservation Order.
Protected
"Anyone found wilfully damaging, pruning, felling or destroying trees within the woodland, without prior consent from the council, may find themselves liable to criminal prosecution.
WA tree preservation order for designated woodland extends from the smallest sapling to the oldest veteran tree.
"We’ll be working with North Wales Police to ensure that our protected woodlands are respected and that off-roading activities adhere to the relevant legislation."
"Enjoy your off-roading activities but please be mindful of the area you are driving in and ask yourself “should I be here?”
Anyone wanting advice about Tree Preservation Orders or to discuss the protective status of a particular woodland should contact 01978 298994, email planning@wrexham.gov.uk or visit wrexham.gov.uk/trees
