National Highways looking into tree felling on A47, near Dereham

Officials from National Highways say they are trying to find out who was responsible for chopping them down on the verge of the A47 at Dereham.

The disappearance of the trees, close to the westbound A1075 exit, has sparked concern from Dereham Town Council.

National Highways launched an investigation into tree felling on the A47 on a piece of land it owns. Here is the land in question on July 2019 (Image: Google Maps)

It has welcomed the investigation and is calling for the trees to be replanted.

They were growing a few metres from the fence of the Greentrees Caravan Store. However, the business said it knew nothing about their loss.

An analysis of Google Maps images over the last 11 years shows that the row of trees has gradually dwindled, with only one left standing left.

A spokesman for National Highways, which owns the land, said: “We are aware of tree felling on the A47 at Dereham and an investigation is underway."

A spokesman for Dereham Town Council added: “It is reassuring to know that National Highways are taking this loss of these trees seriously.

“While some of the benefits of trees next to major roads are well known, a lesser-known benefit is that they help prevent barn owls and bats from flying low levels over the road and getting struck by vehicles.

"It is estimated by the Barn Owl Trust that of the approximately 12,000 barn owls hatched each year between 3,000 and 5,000 are killed on the roads it is also estimated that 5pc of all bat mortalities are as a result of collision with vehicles.

“As well as replanting the trees, National Highways should also consider erecting a physical barrier to provide protection while the trees are growing."

National Highways launched an investigation into tree felling on the A47 on a piece of land it owns. Here is the land in question on July 2023 (Image: Google Maps)