Following the essential tree removals carried out in the Quarry last December, Shrewsbury Town Council’s amenity space team have been busy this week planting new trees close to where the former lime trees once stood.
The removals, which took place along Victoria Avenue, were necessary after detailed inspections identified significant internal decay and structural decline in several mature lime trees. Many of these trees had exceeded their typical lifespan and had been further affected by the Quarry’s high water table and regular flooding, making their removal essential for public safety and the long-term care of the park.
Now, attention has turned to renewal. The new plantings are once again lime trees, but a different variety that is better suited to conditions where roots may be in water for parts of the year. Choosing the right species is crucial in a riverside park like the Quarry, and these new trees have been selected to give them the best possible chance to thrive for decades to come.
Planting in this environment has not been straightforward. Mark and Amy from our amenity space team has faced challenges with digging planting pits wide enough to allow the young trees’ root systems to establish properly. To support healthy growth, the excavated soil has been mixed with biochar, a soil improver that helps enhance soil structure and supports long-term soil health, particularly in demanding conditions.
Each tree has also been carefully supported after planting. Protective tree guards have been installed and secured using wooden stakes bound to the trees, helping to prevent damage while they establish themselves. In addition, an irrigation system has been put in place to ensure water reaches where it is most needed. This system has been adapted on site by team members Mark and Amy, using piping to direct water straight to the root zone, helping the trees cope during their early stages of growth.
Helen Ball, Town Clerk for Shrewsbury Town Council, said:
Caring for the Quarry’s trees is about balancing public safety with long-term stewardship of this historic park. While it is never easy to remove mature trees, replanting with the right species and providing them with the best possible start ensures the Quarry continues to thrive as a green space for future generations.
This work represents the next step in the ongoing management of the Quarry’s historic landscape. The dedication and expertise of the amenity space team is essential in ensuring that the Quarry remains a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike, now and for generations to come.