A tree in Leeds identified as in need of removal(Image: LCC)

An interactive map has been launched identifying diseased trees that need removing in Leeds.

Thousands of ash trees on private and public land have been infected with ash dieback disease and need removing. This is due to safety concerns. If they are not removed they are at risk of collapsing on to roads, causing disruption and potential harm. Areas affected are particularly around highways.

Leeds City Council has used AI technology to locate ash trees along the highways, and their condition has then been assessed by staff on the ground. Several hundred trees have already been safely removed and Leeds City Council plans to plant five trees for each one that is removed on council land.

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, the council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “Ash dieback disease is unfortunately estimated to kill up to 80 per cent to 90 per cent of all ash trees in the UK. In Leeds, our teams have worked hard to identify thousands of trees near to highways that are currently in need...