Dryad Tree Specialists has been appointed by the South Downs National Park Authority to deliver tree clearance and arboricultural surveying along a disused railway corridor within the National Park. The work supports the extension of a public footpath while tackling major tree safety concerns, with a strong focus on risks linked to Ash Dieback.
After decades of natural regeneration, the corridor has become densely wooded. In places, mature ash trees show clear signs of structural decline, and that creates real risk for future path users.
A Risk-Led Approach to Ash Dieback
This isn’t “clear it all and call it done”. Our approach is selective, measured, and grounded in safety.
- High-risk ash trees are removed where they pose a clear hazard to future footpath users
- Lower-risk specimens are retained where possible to protect habitat value and woodland character
- Work methods are matched to the site conditions, especially in tight or sensitive sections
Think of it like a careful edit rather than a total rewrite. We keep what’s working, remove what’s unsafe, and leave the corridor stronger than we found it.
Careful Techniques in Constrained Sections
Some parts of the corridor are restricted by access, terrain, and surrounding vegetation. In these areas we use sectional dismantling to reduce ground disturbance and protect what’s around the tree.
- Sectional dismantling used where space is limited
- Methods chosen to minimise disturbance and protect surrounding vegetation
- All arisings handled in line with current biosecurity guidance
- Operations delivered in line with current arboricultural best practice
Surveying the Next Stage of the Route
Alongside the clearance works, Dryad is completing a detailed arboricultural survey along the next section of the railway line. This captures the information needed for smart planning and phased delivery as the route continues to develop.
| Survey Data Captured | Why It Matters | How It Helps the Client |
|---|---|---|
| Tree species and location | Creates a clear baseline record | Supports planning and asset management |
| Condition and structural integrity | Highlights hazards and declining trees | Helps prioritise future works |
| Ash Dieback progression | Tracks risk change over time | Enables phased, risk-led decisions |
The result is a practical framework the Authority can use to guide future decision-making, manage risk, and protect the character of the corridor as public access expands.
Balancing Access, Safety & Conservation
Delivered within a sensitive National Park landscape, this project shows how Dryad combines hands-on tree management with environmental awareness. By blending safety-led operations with conservation principles, we help improve public access while maintaining the ecological integrity of South Downs National Park environments.
Get in Touch
If you need tree clearance, arboricultural surveying, or an Ash Dieback risk strategy for a sensitive site, contact Dryad Tree Specialists today. We’ll help you manage risk, protect habitats, and deliver safe access projects with confidence.
