Targeted spraying planned in high risk areas to reduce Oak Processionary Moth (OPM)

Due to the continued presence and high numbers of Oak Processionary Moth (OPM) on Ditton Common and Weston Green in recent years, and the discovery of nests on site this year, insecticide spraying will take place in selected areas of the Commons from Friday 24 April.

Contractors will also carry out spraying at the following sites:

To be effective, spraying must be carried out early in the season while the caterpillars are in their initial growth stages. The treatment involves two applications, approximately 10 to 15 days apart.

Our contractors will use a targeted biological insecticide which does not pose a health risk to visitors. However, for your own safety, we ask that you avoid the affected areas while spraying is taking place. We will do our best to keep disruption to a minimum and will clearly signpost all spraying areas in advance to inform residents of any temporary restrictions.

Where necessary, spraying will be supported by nest removal. This work will be carried out by professional tree surgeons who have the required training and specialist equipment.

We will continue to closely monitor OPM across the borough. When assessing cases, we carefully consider the local oak tree population, associated biodiversity, and the severity of infestation. Sites are assessed as high, medium or low risk based on factors including:

• the presence of OPM on individual trees or groups of trees
• the number of visitors to the area
• the risk of exposure to caterpillars
• the vulnerability of individuals using the area, such as infants or older people

The safety of residents and visitors is our priority. Particular attention is given to areas close to homes, schools, playgrounds, recreation grounds, community centres and car parks, as well as places where there is a higher risk of contact with nests. Affected trees will be clearly signposted to advise people to keep their distance.

Due to the scale of the issue across the borough, the council is unable to inspect or treat privately owned land and can only take action on council‑owned sites.

Guidance for private landowners is available online via Oak processionary moth (OPM).

We cannot visit private land due to the scale of the problem. We can only intervene on council-owned land. 
More information on how we manage OPM.