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Tree crews facing mammoth task

Aberdeen City Council’s tree crews are continuing to work across the city to remove dangerous trees felled or damaged by yesterday’s storm.

The nine-strong crew worked throughout the night to clear roads and remove as many hazards as they could.

Overnight the tree squad removed 21 trees. They still have 33 trees which have been deemed a priority to clear, but there are many more throughout the city which require urgent attention. The council has confirmed 53 reports of trees down, and has many other reports of fallen branches.

Of the fallen trees, there are reports of five which landed on cars. Two of those have been cleared so far.

Trees which are not posing a danger and which are not on roads or pavements will be left meantime.

Environmental services area officer Sandy Scott, who oversees the tree crew, said the team faced a mammoth task and had been working extremely hard.

“The guys have worked very long hours to clear as many trees as possible and they’ve done a great job.

“This is hard work and they’ve still got a long way to go just to clear the trees which are posing a danger or causing an obstruction. I’m very proud of the way they’re working and the dedication they’re continuing to show.”

Other grounds team members are helping by clearing debris from the streets.

Aberdeen City Council has received dozens of calls about fallen trees across the area. They are being dealt with on a priority basis and it may take a considerable amount of time for all of the affected trees to be dealt with.

Several reports have been received about fallen trees which, on inspection by the tree squad, have turned out only to be fallen branches. This is hampering work to tackle the problems, because every report has to be checked.

Anyone reporting tree problems is asked to be clear on whether they are reporting a fallen tree or fallen limbs and to provide as much information as possible, including an estimate to the size of the tree and whether or not it is blocking a road or footpath.

Members of the public can help by moving fallen branches on roads or footpaths aside, if it is safe to do so and the limb can be easily moved. No-one should risk injury by trying to cut up or move large or heavy pieces of timber.

Problems can be reported by calling the council’s contact centre on 08456 080919.

Householders are responsible for trees on their property. The council will help by giving advice where possible, but all efforts meantime are on dealing with trees the council is responsible for. Householders are advised to consult a qualified tree surgeon for help if required. Details can be found in the Yellow Pages.

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