Restrictions on the felling and movement of timber in England impacted by Phytophthora pluvialis will be lifted, the Forestry Commission announced today.

The UK Chief Plant Health Officer Nicola Spence has confirmed the changes following updated research which shows that the risk of the disease spreading via the movement of timber and wood materials into wider sites is low. 

Phytophthora pluvialis is a fungus-like pathogen known to affect a variety of tree species. It is reported to cause needle cast, shoot dieback, and lesions on the stem, branches, and roots.

Current restrictions in England on affected sites including Cumbria restrict the felling and movement of susceptible timber and wood materials, as well as plants for planting. The new demarcated area notices will no longer restrict the felling and movement but will continue to restrict the movement of plants.

Forestry Commission’s Plant Health Forestry’s Operations Manager Andy Hall said:

“Based on current research which shows the risk of P. pluvialis spreading via timber movement pathways is low, we have revoked some restrictions in the demarcated areas in Cornwall & Devon, Cumbria, Herefordshire, Surrey, Gloucestershire, and Shropshire.

“Any material from uninfected sites will no longer have restrictions on movement and processing and does not have to be inspected and moved to authorised processors only. Restrictions do however remain in place on movement of plants for planting and materials arising from infected sites within these areas.

“Research and monitoring of the level of risk and likelihood of entry of the disease into the wider environment continues and we will keep the demarcated area approach under review.”

Read more:Grant available for outdoor learning in Carlisle