Replacing felled trees at Keighley-area beauty spot

A swathe of trees at the St Ives estate, Harden, had to be removed earlier this year when they became infected with 'Larch tree disease', or Phytophthora Ramorum.

Larch and sweet chestnut are most affected, but the highly infectious disease is also hosted by rhododendron.

Bradford Council was instructed by the Forestry Commission to remove the infected species.

Now replanting has begun.

Thirty volunteers braved freezing conditions to plant more than 250 trees.

The team planted native oak, rowan and hazel saplings along a main track near Coppice Pond.

Bradford Council's trees and woodlands department organised the planting day, which coincided with National Tree Week.

A spokesperson says: "The long-term plan is to regenerate the woodland, which dates back to the early 19th century, by planting native tree varieties. These will attract more animal and bird life and are a better fit for the landscape. They will absorb carbon long into the future.

"The council has a broader objective to reintroduce native trees to designated areas across the district within a ten-year timeframe."

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for healthy people and places, says: "We are so grateful to all the volunteers who helped out over a weekend when the weather conditions were not very favourable for outdoor work.

"This community support is vital in restoring the woodland on the estate and ensuring that it is a place for everyone to enjoy, and for nature to thrive, many years into the future."

Earlier this year, volunteers from the Friends of St Ives group voiced their sadness at the tree felling but said the action was necessary to remove the diseased trees and protect the future of the historic site.

Clearance work was carried out at the western side of the estate, between Coppice Pond and Keighley Road, in an area known as Lady Blantyre’s Wood. Some trees were also removed from Bingley St Ives Golf Club to the north.

Pam Laking has given her views on the latest situation (Image: Newsquest)

Pam Laking, chair of the Friends of St Ives, said at the time that the felling was a "sad situation" but that the council didn't have any choice and the group was supportive of the actions.

She added: "Native trees are now being planted in place of those removed so in the long term we will have a beautiful indigenous forest for everyone to enjoy."