Tree Works Across the Arm

Visitors walking through the Arm this week may have spotted a rather remarkable sight in our trees. Kevin, our expert tree surgeon, has begun the scheduled work to keep the site’s trees healthy and safe. Watching him in action high above the towpath, ropes swinging, chainsaw in hand, you could be forgiven for thinking he is part man and part squirrel.

This work is an important part of looking after the Arm. Many of our more mature trees stretch over the towpath and the moored boats, which makes them both beautiful and occasionally a bit tricky. Leaf fall on boat roofs is a regular autumn nuisance, and heavy branches can become a concern in poor weather. Kevin is pruning these canopies back with care so that they stay healthy, allow wind to move cleanly through them, and no longer pose a risk to boats or walkers.

One of the first tasks was removing a large branch overhanging the beehives. The hive residents are small but mighty, and we want to make sure their home stays safe through the winter storms.

Over the coming days we will be writing to our neighbours on the south side of the site to let them know when work near their boundary will begin. As always, we will keep disruption to a minimum and ensure the site remains open and safe for everyone.

These works may not be the most glamorous part of running the Saltisford Arm, but they are essential for the long term wellbeing of the canal, its wildlife, and the people who enjoy it. And with

Kevin scampering about in the canopy, it is hard not to stop for a moment and admire the skill involved.

More updates will follow as the work progresses, and visitors are welcome to chat to staff or volunteers on site if they would like to know more about the project.