The road will be closed on Tuesday 25 November 2025 between 10am and 2pm to assess the area for ash dieback disease – a fungal disease that affects ash trees, spreading through their branches until eventually the whole tree dies. The trees are on private land.
The inspection is being carried out in advance of a further road closure from 5 January to 28 February 2026 to remove unstable trees from roadside verges and banks along the stretch, preventing the risk of them falling into the road and creating a danger for road users. Traffic will be diverted at Newhaven and Cromford via a signed diversion while the road closures are in place.
It follows the completion of emergency work to remove more than 100 trees from private land on the A6 between Cromford and Matlock Bath last week after a tree came down and hit a car travelling on the road during Storm Claudia on 14 November 2025.
Councillor Charlotte Hill, our Cabinet Member for Potholes, Highways and Transport, said:
“We apologise for any inconvenience which may be caused while the Via Gellia is closed for a short time tomorrow to allow tree inspectors to identify trees for removal.
“This is essential work to plan the safe removal of diseased trees from the roadside in the new year so please bear with us as public safety must come first.”
Councillor Carol Wood, our Cabinet Member for Net Zero and Environment, added:
“The number of invasive tree pests and diseases in the UK is increasing and ash dieback – a fungal disease affecting ash trees – is one disease currently having a significant impact on the Derbyshire landscape.
“We would urge all landowners to carry out regular inspections of trees on their property, particularly ash trees, and consider the risks posed by the trees to surrounding people and property.
“A tree professional will be able to advise you of the options for removal where necessary and you can find more advice and support on our website.”
Find more information on ash dieback.