Movement restrictions to protect against tree pest in Kent

28 January 2019


New measures have been introduced to protect the country against the larger eight-toothed spruce bark beetle (Ips typographus), which was discovered in Kent in December 2018.

Legislation has been laid in Parliament that will restrict the movement of all susceptible material, including trees and wood with bark, within 50km of the outbreak sites where Ips typographus was found.

This legislation is a necessary precaution to prevent the spread of the pest further afield and will remain in place until further notice, but will be kept under review.

“The larger eight-toothed spruce bark beetle poses no threat to human health, but it can be a serious pest to the spruce tree species and the forestry industry,” said Nicola Spence, the UK chief plant health officer.