Calls for restrictions on dangerous roadside trees

There have been calls for Tipperary County Council to impose restrictions on the planting of trees along public roads.

It comes after a number of motions were tabled to by local representatives outlining the dangers trees can pose – particularly during stormy weather.

Tipp FM’s Amy Ryan reports:

Fianna Fail Councillor John Hogan there speaking at this month’s meeting of Tipperary County Council

There were a number of motions before the local authority this month, highlighing the need for action when it comes to roadside trees – given the damaging effect they had during recent storms.

However Council officals pointed out that under the Roads Act, the onus is on landowners, NOT the council, to inspect and maintain their roadside trees to ensure they are in a safe condition.

Cllr Hogan proposed new restrictions which would dictate where landowners can plant – he says trees need to be set back at a safe distance – the height of the tree plus one metre back from the road.

He explains why he thinks the current guidelines need to be changed:

Storm Ophelia claimed three lives in the country – one of which was Ardfinnan native, Michael Pyke, who was killed after he was struck by a tree while attempting to clear a road.

Cllr Hogan says we must re-examine the existing laws in light of the extreme weather conditions we are experiencing: