Areas of Chase re-open after disease is tackled
Areas of Cannock Chase are being re-opened as action to tackle the rare and destructive plant disease on Cannock Chase is starting to show positive results.
Areas of Cannock Chase are being re-opened as action to tackle the rare and destructive plant disease on Cannock Chase is starting to show positive results.
The operation to clear the Chase of infected plants and create buffer zones to limit spread has been effective, meaning some restrictions imposed after the outbreak of a rare form of the Phytophthora fungal infection, can be lifted. Dog walkers can let pets off the lead between Seven Springs and Stepping Stones, on the Satnall Hills and on most of Brindley Heath.
The relaxations are subject to the existing by-law requirement to keep dogs under close control.
The operation to clear the Chase of the disease continues an restrictions in some areas of the Chase are still in place.
Staffordshire County Council head of countryside and environment Steve Potter said the relaxation is a sign the operation is making an impact.
He said: "We have made good progress in tackling the disease but there are still major pockets of resistance and we cannot relax our vigilance.
"We really are very keen to ensure the Chase is open to public access so that local people can enjoy this amazing wildlife treasure. But the fight goes on to tackle this very rare infection before it causes irreparable damage to the very environment people come to enjoy.
"That's why we have to maintain controls on access where the infection eradication operation is still in full swing.
"I would like to thank the public for their continued co-operation and understanding in this very difficult and testing time. Please watch out for notices and information and stick to the paths."
Earlier this month, the car park at Coppice Hill was closed in a bid to contain the disease after vandals destroyed signs and vital disease monitoring equipment and a small minority of dog walkers continued to flout calls to keep their animals on a lead.
The council's experts are continuing to cut and burn infected plants in an attempt to bring the disease under control before the summer fire risk and nesting birds bring work to a halt.
