The 'unsafe' tree in West Parley which has caused a road to close

Residents say a recent storm blew over a large tree along the A347 New Road, in West Parley, and it subsequently caused another tree to partially uproot. 

The standing tree is now deemed “unsafe” by Dorset Council and they say it could take until Tuesday, November 15 to fell the tree. 

Dorset Council say the reason is due to specialist equipment, including a crane, being required to safely take the tree down and remove it. 

Tree in New Road (Image: Daily Echo)

A section of the New Road, from the car wash to Dene Walk, is closed to vehicles northbound, though cars travelling south still have access. 

Traffic yesterday was building up as a result of the closure. Drivers are being advised to divert via Dudsbury Road. 

A spokesperson for Dorset Council said: “The A347 New Road, between Parley Cross and Ringwood Road will be closed from the afternoon of Friday 11 November to vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders 

“This is due to safety concerns with a tree adjacent to the highway. 

Tree in New Road (Image: Daily Echo)

“We are working with the tree’s owner to get it felled as soon as possible, but this may not be until Tuesday 15 November as specialist equipment, including a crane, is required. 

“We expect the work to then be completed within 24 hours but we will inform residents if it will take longer.   

“In the meantime, a diversion will be in place and we are asking people to allow extra time for their journey.   

“We are talking to nearby residents and businesses affected by the closure.” 

Morebus said its buses will divert via Dudsbury Road both ways. 

Passengers have been urged to expect delays to the services due to the congestion this will cause in the area.