More Than 100 Ash Trees Felled in Worthing and Lancing Due to Disease

More than 100 trees are being removed from Worthing and Lancing as part of efforts to combat the spread of ash dieback, a deadly fungal disease.

Adur and Worthing Councils have begun felling ash trees affected by the disease in Lancing Ring and Sheepcombe Hanger at Cissbury Fields. Around 40 trees at Lancing Ring and over 100 at Sheepcombe Hanger will be cut down due to the significant risk they pose to public safety if they were to fall. Ash dieback is a chronic fungal disease that weakens trees and eventually renders them unsafe, with symptoms including crown dieback.

The councils have advised the public to avoid cordoned-off areas and keep dogs under close control while the work is ongoing. Replacement efforts will see hundreds of young trees planted, including species such as oak, hornbeam, and field maple, ensuring the conservation of local woodlands for future generations. Planting will begin next winter in the affected areas.

Ash dieback is a major issue across the UK and Europe, significantly impacting the common ash tree, which is prevalent in West Sussex. The ongoing efforts in Worthing and Lancing aim to mitigate the damage caused by the disease while prioritising public safety and ecological restoration.