A tree felling operation will be taking place after larch disease was identified in the Gwydir Forest, Penmachno in North Wales.

A Statutory Plant Health Notice, beginning 29 August, means Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is scheduled to fell around 3.5ha from an area around Penmachno, within Gwydir Forest Park to limit the larch disease – or Phytophthora ramorum – from spreading further.

Kath McNulty, NRW’s team leader for forest operations in North West Wales, says: “To comply with the notice, the trees will need to be removed to stop any further spread of the larch disease.

“Haulage and felling restrictions will be in place meaning there will be no trees felled or removed at weekends and during public holidays and we will work to reduce the impact on the local community wherever possible, but our priority is to keep everyone safe.”

Residential access will remain open, subject to short delays.