Renfrewshire Council carries out 'extensive tree works' across cemeteries after Storm Eowyn
Renfrewshire Council has carried out "extensive tree works" across its cemetery estate in the local authority following the impact of Storm Eowyn.
A red weather warning saw strong winds cause severe disruption in the area towards the end of January, with clearance and survey works ultimately required in all cemeteries.
Elected members welcomed the progress made by council workers as they applauded the "hard work" that has been done by the team.
A paper, which was considered at Wednesday's infrastructure, land and environment, shed light on the range of jobs that have been undertaken.
The update said: "Over the past few months there has been extensive tree works across the cemetery estate following Storm Eowyn, this included the removal of fallen trees and debris and then re-surveying all trees within the cemetery grounds.
"Following the storm clearance, a programme of proactive works was created to target trees identified as requiring specialist arborist attention.
"To date, the service has completed clearance works in all cemeteries in Renfrewshire, fully surveyed trees in the estate and has completed preventative works in Arkleston, Hawkhead, and Kilbarchan cemeteries.
"The service anticipates full completion of tree works in cemeteries by June 2025."
Reflecting on the report, Councillor Chris Gilmour, Labour group environment spokesperson and representative for Johnstone North and the surrounding villages, said: "I just want to acknowledge the hard work done by the cemetery team and look forward to seeing further improvements going forward.
"I think sometimes it's easy to criticise but if we look a bit deeper we see how much hard work is actually going on within that environment."
Councillor Andy Steel, an SNP representative for Johnstone South and Elderslie, added: "I also echo Councillor Gilmour's point on the work being done on the cemeteries, sensitive and difficult work, and I'm really pleased to see it moving forward."
Meanwhile, Councillor John McNaughtan, an SNP representative for Paisley East and Central, took the opportunity to highlight recent upgrades to Hawkhead Cemetery, which have included roads and drainage improvements.
He added: "There's been significant investment over recent years by this administration, still more to be done, but I very much welcome the improvement."
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