Over 2,000 diseased ash trees in Leeds have been identified for removal, the city council has announced.

If they are not removed, the trees are at risk of collapsing onto roads and causing disruption or harm. 

The trees, on private and public land, are infected with ash dieback disease or have other defects. 

Ash dieback is a highly destructive fungal disease that can weaken and kill some trees. 

It is spread through wind-borne spores which do not pose any risk to human or animal health. 

Leeds City Council has used AI technology to locate ash trees along the highways and then deployed staff to assess their condition on the ground. 

An interactive ash dieback map has been produced to help landowners identify if any of the relevant trees are on their land. 

View the ash dieback map here: Leeds City Council’s Interactive Ash Dieback Map

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “In Leeds, our teams have worked hard to identify thousands of trees near to highways that are currently in need of felling. 

“Landowners do have responsibility to manage trees on their own land. If you own land near to the highway then you should check the map to view the condition of your trees, but wherever you live it’s also important to read the guidance on the webpage if you are at all concerned about any trees you have on your property.  

“The council also has plans in place to remove all trees on our land considered unsafe to remain as they can pose a risk to people and property.”

There are currently 1,300 privately owned trees that require attention and a further 1,000 on council-owned land which are due for removal. 

Leeds City Council plans to plant five trees for each one that is removed on council land.