The Government has announced that it will be giving twenty five million pounds to the appropriate environmental agencies in a bid to tackle Phytophthora ramorum and Phytophthora kernoviae in an attempt to thwart its spread across the British Isles.
Speaking at Nymans Gardens in Sussex, Environment Minister Jane Kennedy announced that the £25 million is to help eradicate the deadly pathogens that is plaguing historic gardens, woodland and heathlands across England and Wales.
The money will go towards a five-year programme designed to manage and contain the risks of two plant diseases, also known as Sudden oak death Syndrome.
Kennedy said: “These lethal diseases are having a detrimental effect in pristine locations, which in turn could have a detrimental effect on our local tourism industry, and our own lifestyles.
“Defra, the Forestry Commission and local authorities are currently tackling outbreaks across England and Wales including the New Forest, the south west of England, and Cannock Chase in Staffordshire. These are significant tourist hot spots that could face a drop in visitor numbers if we don’t act now.
“Many of us escape the hustle and bustle of the city for the fresh air in our beautiful countryside.
“But if this disease spreads, it could mean parts of the countryside being cordoned off, and more limited public access – in addition to further loss of our precious woodland.
“That’s why we’ve announced this significant funding to help combat these diseases and safeguard our woodlands for the future.”
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