Snow damage will cost thousands in Ironbridge Gorge
Snow caused thousands of pounds worth of damage in the Ironbridge Gorge, with the trust behind the repairs still counting the costs.
It was estimated that over 40cm of snow fell on the Gorge earlier this month, with the the Severn Gorge Countryside Trust still surveying damage caused by trees.
The trust manages 52 sites across the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, including over 60 historic structures.
It estimates that there are at least 100 large trees down with scores more with damaged crowns and fallen branches.
Every footpath on the lower slopes of Benthall Edge is blocked as was Loamhole Dingle, the historic Ropewalk and the Shropshire Way.
Councillor Nicola Lowery, ward member for the Ironbridge Gorge, will help pay for repairs through her Councillors Pride Fund.
SGCT Manager Russell Rowley said: "There has been unprecedented snow damage across scores of trees blocking many key footpaths.
"We are grateful for the support of Cllr Nicola Lowery via the Councillors Pride Fund. The damage will cost us several thousand pounds to put right so this contribution is greatly appreciated.
"Though the damage has been severe, it is just nature’s way of restructuring the woodlands on the steeper more inaccessible slopes and the extra light will allow wild flowers and birds to flourish."
Councillor Lowery said: "The trees have sadly fallen on a number of our walking trails and on learning more about the scale of the snow loaded tree clearance work required it became clear what a considerable task this would be for the Trust and I was keen to offer my support.
"The funding will be used towards the clearing of a large number of trees that have fallen throughout the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site.
"The Severn Gorge Countryside Trust and their devoted team do such fantastic work in the Gorge in managing our unique and historic landscape and this project will ensure that these affected walking routes, that are greatly valued and used regularly used by the community and visitors to the Gorge are brought back into use."
