Dear Residents of Byrness

 

You will be aware that the willow growing in the area opposite Otterburn Green near the A68 has to a large extent been allowed to grow unchecked for a number of years now.

 

Whilst this has acted as a natural sound barrier from the passing traffic on the A68 it is not good for the health of the willow or the natural environment to be left unchecked for so long.

 

The Tyne River Trust (TRT) has kindly agreed to undertake a degree of coppicing over the next few years. Coppicing is a pruning technique where the willow is cut to ground level, resulting in regeneration of new stems from the base. This is vital for the ongoing health of the willow as well as improving the biodiversity of the whole area by opening it up to sunlight and allowing not only for the willow to grow back stronger but for a wider range of plants to flourish.

 

Aware that the willow at this location acts as a sound barrier to the traffic TRT has agreed to undertake the coppicing in stages over the next few years rather than undertake the whole job in one year.

 

The timing of the work is to be confirmed but will happen sometime from autumn through winter and certainly before there is fresh growth next spring.

 

The Parish Council hopes that you understand the importance of this work and wishes to make you aware so it will not be a shock when you saw the work being carried out.

 

The Parish Council is very grateful to the Tyne Rivers Trust volunteers for agreeing to do this work in Byrness.