Tree Safety Fears

A DEAD tree in Belfairs Park Woods, Leigh, that is growing over a major gas pipeline has been cordoned off over safety fears.

Walkers are now being urged to keep away from the tree, whilst work is undertaken to remove the tree with specialist equipment, without rupturing the Cadent gas pipe.

Stephen Aylen, Independent councillor for Belfairs, reportedly explained: “It’s a totally dead tree and the problem is there is a main gas pipe underneath it.

“It actually supplies London. The gas board raised concerns over this tree and it’s got to be removed along with three others. The problem is the gas pipe is near the surface so the normal vehicles can’t be used. They are going to take in lightweight vehicles hopefully tomorrow.

“They had to get approval of what equipment they could use and they’ve got to put matting down to pack it down as well to absorb any shocks. It’s quite involved.”

The section of the bridleway has been cordoned off until the work can be carried out, but there are reports of walkers flagrantly walking across the barrier and putting themselves in danger.

Coun Aylen added: “What’s annoying is there are barriers put up to close the footpath and people are just lifting them. An elderly couple with their grandchildren broke the tape and walked through.

“What’s held it up is the permission, because it’s not a case of taking the tree down. Because of the gas pipe they’ve got to be very careful working over it.

“The company doing the work have had to give reports on how they are going to do it and what machinery they are going to use because the gas pipe is so near the surface. The gas board are quite worried about it.

“They are saying it could explode.”

A Cadent spokesperson said: “We have been working with Belfairs Wood’s team regarding our gas pipe that crosses the wood. For safety reasons we may have to remove a tree or two, however, details have yet to be confirmed.”

Picture: The tree. Pic Stephen Aylen

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