BECKSIDE trees are causing concern for dale villagers as another has toppled over, damaging roadside fencing.
In the spring and summer, mature trees dotted along the banks of Langley Beck, in Staindrop, create a picturesque backdrop.
But the parish council has expressed concern after another came down last month.
Cllr Ian Royston told members the latest tree to topple over was at the bottom of Queen’s Wynd.
Branches that had blocked the road had been sawn off, but the main trunk was still straddled across the beck.
He added: “It was right across the road. Any passing cars or residents would have been hit with it. I have lived here four-and-a-half years and that is the third tree that has come down at Beckside and the tubular fence is getting banged.”
Chairman Cllr David Reed said the trees were the responsibility of Raby Estates.
He added: “We have had this problem before. Raby claimed the land and should deal with the upkeep, but they don’t. The beck could be eroding the roots.”
Cllr Royston added: “It is dangerous. I’m concerned about trees coming down and hitting cars and residents.
“I don’t think I would be parking my car there. It was right across Beckside and could have serious injury.”
Cllr Ed Chicken said the trees were self-seeded and have been left to grow. He added the trees also posed a problem if they caused blockages to the beck, which could then flood.
He said: “It’s a mess. That whole length could do with a tidy up and it would cost a fortune.”
Cllr Roger Humphries said: “Why don’t we suggest Raby Estates do a survey and take out the trees that are problematic because part of the look of the Beckside is the trees?
“We have expressed our concerns and recommend that any dangerous trees should be taken out.”
