Brocton Coppice

Chase disease action starts to bite

Action to tackle the rare and destructive plant disease on Cannock Chase has started to bite.

Staffordshire County Council has announced that the operation to clear the Chase of infected plant material, and create buffer zones to limit future spread, has started to deliver positive results.

This means that some of the restrictions can now be lifted where areas now test as disease free.

Dog walkers will now be able to let their pets off the lead again between Seven Springs and Stepping Stones, on the Satnall Hills and over most of Brindley Heath.

The relaxations are of course subject to the existing byelaw requirement to keep them under close control.

The operation to clear the Chase of the disease continues unabated. Restrictions in some areas of the Chase are still firmly in place.

Head of Countryside and Environment Steve Potter said the relaxation was a sign that the operation was making an impact.

"We have made good progress is tackling the disease but there are still major pockets of resistance and we cannot relax our vigilance.

"We really are very keen to ensure that the Chase is open to public access so that local people can enjoy this amazing wildlife treasure. But the fight goes on to tackle this very rare infection before it causes irreparable damage to th very environment people come to enjoy.

"That's why we have to maintain controls on access where the infection eradication operation is still in full swing. 

"I would like to thank the public for their continued cooperation and understanding in this very difficult and testing time. Please wacth out for notices and information and stick to the paths," he said.

Page Last Modified: 14/05/2009 12:57:37

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