Dutch Elm Disease

Brighton and Hove's Elms have recently been hit very badly by Dutch Elms Disease. We lost three trees in our neighbourhood (sadly just after bees had re-colonised the 'bee' tree on Compton Road) and there are sad reminders all around town of trees that had to be felled to control the disease, including the very sad demise of one of the Preston Twins.

You can see from the stripped back stumps all around town that these were mostly large, mature trees and it is hard to imagine how they could all be replaced.

Besides helping us raise funds to replace the three stumps in our neighbourhood, you can also help the council by being vigilant and reporting any suspected Dutch Elm Disease cases. The disease spreads readily to neighbouring trees if it's not dealt with. The council can't inspect elm trees on private land so have asked for residents to call them in for a free inspection if they suspect their trees are affected by the disease. The council has also asked residents to not cut up and distribute elm logs or products within the city, and to not bring them into the city for firewood, furniture or other goods.

Please see the link below for more guidance and information from the council.

https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/content/leisure-and-libraries/parks-and-green-spaces/elm-disease