This is an overview of the Bala High Street Improvements plan.

The North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA), working on behalf of the Welsh Government, has appointed YGC as a designer to make improvements to the 24 tree pits on the high street of Bala.

The trees have been planted within the conservation area in the center of the town, along the A494 (T).

Most of the trees remain in good health but the infrastructure around them is deteriorating in many cases. Therefore, funds have been allocated by NMWTRA to make improvements that will ensure the long-term health of the trees and provide amenity benefits to the area.

The intention of the work is to redesign and repair the area near the base of the trees by installing a permeable ‘Flexi-pave’ surface.

The work will improve the accessibility of the high street by ensuring more space for pedestrians, ensuring the long-term health of the trees and improving surface water drainage.

Our contractors

Jones Bros Civil Engineering from Ruthin have been appointed as contractors for the work. An experienced and professional company that is very familiar with the area. They will aim to complete the work within 7 weeks.

What will the work involve?

• Dismantling and removing the existing curbs, stones and iron ‘grills’ around the trees.
• De-compacting the existing soil and dressing with a layer of compost.
• Exchanging three decayed trees for new trees.
• Installing new concrete paving stones, which will be tied into the existing pavement.
• Resurfacing the tree pits with a permeable ‘flexi-pave’ material.

The work will be done under the supervision of arboriculture experts.

Advantages

• Reduced tripping hazards.
• Increase space for pedestrians.
• Reduce maintenance requirements.
• Prevent soil compaction.
• Allow water and oxygen to infiltrate the soil.
• Moderate soil temperature.
• Improve the overall health of the trees.
• Prevent litter from accumulating.
• Maintain flexibility as tree roots and trunks grow.
• Slowing down runoff from a sustainable urban drainage system.