The root of the problem... Overgrown trees causing big problems in housing estates

Footpaths and boundary walls cracked by overgrown trees, satellite signals being blocked and extremely tall trees at risk of falling are among the issues related to overgrown trees in housing estates recently raised with Meath County Council.

Dunshaughlin woman, Nicola Doyle had a recent fall near her home in the Maelduin estate.

“The roots of a tree had lifted the path and I tripped. Luckily, I was able to save myself with my hands and had just a few scratches, but it could have been so much worse if it was an older person.

“There is also a problem with trees blocking satellite dishes and one tree is overhanging into my neighbour's garden blocking out the light.

Cllr Fionnan Blake raised the issue at last week's meeting of Meath County Council, calling on the council to undertake and develop a clear management plan to address overgrown trees in housing estates, which should involve direct communications with residents committees.”

He said overgrown trees were becoming a massive issue in estates. “Some of these trees were planted by developers in estates in the '80s and '90s without any forward thinking.

“There are a few different issues. Leylandii trees that used to be planted - but not anyore - have grown so high in places that although healthy, they are at risk of blowing down during the storms we get year in year out.

“Another complaint is satellite signals being blocked. The biggest problem I find is roots undermining footpaths, lifting sections of footpaths causing trip hazards and in one case in my area a boundary wall is cracked at the side of the house and I have been told of underground pipes being undermined by roots.”

“Could we adopt some kind of a scheme because the issues are not being dealt with quickly enough. We need a clear plan to manage this issue.”

He was told a register of complaints or queries received in relation to trees was held in each Municipal District.

Many of these relate to trees in housing estates that have been taken in charge. An arborist is procured from time to time to assess the trees on the register and to recommend maintenance works or felling where necessary.

Meanwhile Cllr Noel French raised the issue during a discussion on the council's Biodiversity Plan, which includes proposals for a tree management strategy.

“We have had problems in this county with maintenance of trees and vegetation around power lines after falling trees and snapping branches caused widespread damage and outages. Thousands of homes and businesses were left without power.

“A policy on roadside tree management for land owners is to be welcomed. Ash dieback disease has exacerbated the situation, with many tree lines weakened by dead or dying ash trees. Some trees such as beech are inherently more susceptible to being felled by strong winds.

“We should plant more trees to sequester carbon and promote biodiversity. Increasing native trees will improve biodiversity and support natural ecosystems.”