As a result, Back O’Hill Road will be closed in both directions from next Wednesday (19 March) until the following Wednesday (26 March) between the hours of 0930-1530 to accommodate vital felling work by specialist tree surgeons.
The road will be closed from beyond the traffic lights at Sainsbury’s, through the mini-roundabout to the junction with Raploch Road.
Access to Sainsbury’s and McDonald’s will be maintained throughout to traffic travelling from the mini roundabout near the fast food restaurant, with access to the Back O’Hill Industrial Estate via Raploch Road and Huntly Crescent.
For public safety, footpaths that border and pass through the affected section of Gowanhill will also be closed for the duration of the works, with alternative pedestrian routes available via Drip Road and Raploch Road.
Ash dieback is fungal disease affecting the common ash tree, which make up 12 per cent of the UK’s woodland and are often found in parks, hedgerows and roadsides. The disease, which originated in eastern Asia, was first identified in the UK more than a decade ago and has since blighted millions of trees.
Risk
Convener of the Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, Cllr Jen Preston, said: “We have identified a number of trees with Ash dieback and they now pose an increased hazard to road and footpath users.
“Many of the trees along the stretch of road are infected, dead or in declining health, and the resulting reduction in wood strength poses an increased risk that they could fall.
“The work is absolutely necessary and, for reasons of safety, can only be conducted during daylight hours.
“We thank residents and local businesses for their understanding while we undertake this important work.
“We will also undertake a replacement tree planting programme at appropriate locations following the completion of these works.”