A NEWLY established in-house tree service is already making a significant impact across Redcar and Cleveland, managing the area’s tree stock more efficiently and cost-effectively.
Following the recruitment of a dedicated Arborist Officer, the council has invested in building a skilled operational team to meet the growing demand for tree maintenance, including responding to risks posed by Ash Dieback.
Thanks to the team’s swift and targeted response, a large number of tree-related reports have already been dealt with, with many others scheduled for works over the coming months. The service has also been equipped with new plant and machinery, including a 23-metre Mobile Elevated Work Platform and two new woodchippers—allowing the team to carry out complex and emergency tree works in-house, saving on contractor costs and increasing overall efficiency.
The team played a central role in the council’s emergency response efforts during recent extreme weather events such as Storm Darragh. Their hard work, alongside colleagues in the Clean and Green and Highways teams, ensured the residents’ safety and minimised the damage caused to the area.
The Tree Service Team, who collectively have over 60 years of experience in the subject area, continue to make strong progress in reducing the backlog of requests while tackling ongoing challenges.
Cllr Adam Brook, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said:
"Trees are a vital part of our environment and our communities, and it’s our responsibility to manage them with care and professionalism. The new Tree Service is already making a real difference—reducing backlogs, improving response times, and supporting our emergency efforts during storms. It’s thanks to their expertise and commitment that we’re now able to take on more complex work in-house, saving money and improving services for residents. I’d like to thank the team for their dedication and our residents for their continued patience as we work through the backlog and plan for a greener future for our borough."
The council is committed to continuing its work to protect, maintain and enhance its tree stock.