Responding to the launch of Defra’s new tree health pilot, Country Land & Business Association President Mark Bridgeman said:

“The support currently available, through schemes like the Countryside Stewardship, is only good for woodland situations, not hedgerows or roadside trees affected by ash dieback which can cost significant amounts of money to put right. Whereas this new pilot scheme should provide a wider range of support in helping farmers and landowners tackle the ever-increasing threat of pests and diseases within trees.”

“The CLA has been involved in shaping the Tree Health Pilot which will pave the way for a new tree health support scheme across England from 2024. Although the pilot will only operate in some parts of the country for now, we’d urge all landowners with trees to look out for the sorts of support available through the pilot which may become available to all within three years.”