Assurance given over tree clearance on A9 at Berriedale
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BEAR Scotland has promised to clear any trees that are found to pose an "an immediate hazard" alongside the A9 at Berriedale.
The road maintenance and management firm also plans to get rid of low-hanging branches and vegetation between Golspie and Latheron early in 2024.
The assurances came after Highland councillor Matthew Reiss called for the Berriedale area to be given "top priority" for clearing fallen trees.
In an email to BEAR Scotland at the weekend, he said: "Recently, trees have fallen on the A9 in the Berriedale area. Storm Babet felled some which were apparently cleared by the local estate, or possibly by BEAR.
"This week it has happened again. In recent years a great deal of tree work has taken place on the A9 at Tain, Alness and elsewhere.
"Please could you advise me on recent works in Caithness and also proposed tree maintenance in the county?
"A local haulage contractor has also suggested gorse and whins be cleared back in several locations to improve visibility. This includes sections north of Brora.
"I would specifically ask that the Berriedale area be accorded top priority."
Councillor Reiss represents Thurso and Northwest Caithness on Highland Council.
A spokesperson for BEAR Scotland said: "We are inspecting the area around Berriedale for fallen trees near the trunk road and will take any necessary action. Any that are an immediate hazard will be cleared.
"We will also notify any neighbouring landowners if there are any trees on private land adjoining the trunk road network which may require attention.
"In addition to any work undertaken following our regular inspections of the network, we plan to remove low-hanging branches and vegetation between Golspie and Latheron after the new year."
Last week, Caithness Health Action Team warned that the county was effectively cut off twice in one day because of trees on the road at Berriedale. The group argued that such blockages were putting pregnant mothers and newborn babies at risk and repeated its call for Caithness to be given island status by the Scottish Government.
