Highland Council urging landowners to check for wind damaged trees

Following the high winds forecast and experienced this week due to Storm Babet, Highland Council is encouraging landowners to check trees and vegetation near to public roads which may have been damaged.

Landowners are also asked to check the drainage from their property that it is not blocked and overflowing onto public roads.

Highland Council operatives have been clearing fallen trees across the region but due to the large amount of demand, the Council urges private landowners to check their property near roads.

Tracey Urry, head of roads and infrastructure said: “Damaged trees/vegetation and blocked drainage can cause potential hazards to road users by obstructing the passage of vehicles and pedestrians. The council is particularly concerned where weakened or damaged branches could subsequently fall on vehicles or pedestrians.

“Our teams have been working incredibly hard to try to keep the council’s roads clear but where there is a risk to our staff’s health and safety we sometimes have to postpone works until it is safe to resume works.”

Under Section 91 of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 the council may serve notice on landowners requiring them to take action to remove hazardous or obstructive vegetation. In extreme cases, where there is an imminent danger to the public the Council will take action and landowners will be liable for the cost.

For further information, landowners requiring advice and guidance on this matter should contact the council’s service centre on 01349 886601 (during office hours) or 01349 886690 (out of hours).

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