Points To Consider About Our Trees

Chorltonville’s public and private trees help to give the estate its “village” character, and make the area an attractive location. Nevertheless, new residents of Chorltonville should consider some concerns from the proximity of trees:

• Storm damage from falling trees
• Subsidence from tree roots
• Leaves blocking gutters
• Low branches catching cars

The 360 public trees are subject to a continuous programme of inspection and maintenance, minimising problems such as these. For example, all tree replacements and new plantings are street trees, which typically have less root spread, and a compact canopy starting well above head height. The committee is not responsible for trees on private property and cannot guarantee that trees will withstand storms (as happened in violent weather in January 2007).

New (and current) residents who are concerned about damage from trees should consider checking that their buildings insurance covers tree root and storm damage. It is also advisable to make sure that rainwater gutters and valley hoppers are kept free of leaves, because in some cases blockages can cause overflows and damp to the walls of the houses. Devices are on sale which can help to minimise this problem, but regular inspection and clearance is advised.

While concerns have been raised by resident as to squirrels using trees to access the eaves of houses, the squirrels have been observed climbing the walls directly – even using pebble dash to climb up.