Section of A38 to Close for Four Days in January for Ash Tree Safety Works

A key stretch of the A38, located between Oakridge Lane and Shipham Lane, will close for four days starting Monday, January 12, as North Somerset Council undertakes crucial tree clearance operations. The closure will be in effect daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., impacting all users including motorists, cyclists, horse riders, and pedestrians.

This section of the A38, a vital commuter route linking Weston-super-Mare and Cheddar to Bristol, is being temporarily closed to address the safety threat posed by ash dieback disease. The infection, caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus, has severely damaged many ash trees in the area, necessitating their removal to prevent accidents.

Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Culture, Community Services and Safety, emphasized the severity of the situation: “Ash dieback is now widespread across Britain, threatening up to 90% of native ash trees with no known cure. We are committed to managing its impact and safeguarding our environment for the future.”

Diversion routes will be clearly signposted throughout the duration of the closure to minimize disruption. Residents and commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly.

Ash trees are the third most prevalent tree species in the UK, but the Woodland Trust estimates that ash dieback could kill up to 80% of them nationwide. Beyond environmental loss, the economic impact is considerable—estimated at £15 billion—covering tree removal costs and increased air pollution from fewer trees.

Identifying infected trees is key to managing the disease. Signs include discoloured or black leaves and dark brown, diamond-shaped lesions where branches meet the trunk. North Somerset residents are encouraged to report suspected cases via Tree Alert to help slow the spread of the disease.

For the latest updates on road closures and diversions in North Somerset, please check the council’s official website.