The Hornbeam tree in The Quarry was inspected last week and found to be in serious decline and unstable.
This was confirmed on Monday by a Tree Officer from Shropshire Council.
The Town Council recognises that this is a tree of particular significance and we have spent a lot of money over the last year trying to save it, however, given its location in relation to the road and the splash park, a decision has been taken to remove the Hornbeam as soon as possible for safety reasons.
A considerable number of branches have already fallen over the last few days.
The Splash Park will therefore be closed on Wednesday 29th June to allow removal work to take place.
Because of the condition of the tree, it is exempt from the normal consent to tree works in a Conservation Area.
Facts about the tree:
- Major limb broke off over the road pre 2009
- Notice of decline in the tree was first noticed around 2010
- Fencing was erected around the tree to protect the root system
- An air spade was used to loosen and improve the quality of the soil system to allow nutrients to get to the root system
- Various nutrients have been added to try and improve the soil structure and the amount of nutrients available to the tree
- Various pruning works have been carried out to encourage regrowth
- Over the last few weeks various branches have fallen down over the road, Quarry Park and the new splash park
- A new hornbeam tree will be planted during the forthcoming winter period
ENDS/