Eye-catching tree in Leyland's Worden Park to be reduced to a "stem" - here's why

A notice has been erected by a beech tree in Worden Park, Leyland, loved for it’s exposed root system, which reach down to the path.

The council states that the tree will be “reduced to a 20ft stem this autumn”. It continues: “Following inspections by our officers and an invasive detailed decay inspection from an independent arboricultural consultant, we have concluded that the works must take place to ensure the continued safety of park users.

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“The tree has been confirmed to host three separate decay fungi which have already internally degraded over 25 per cent of the stem of the tree to a depth of 400mm. The decay fungi are aggressive and are commonly found in beech trees.

“It is anticipated that the works will allow for the long-term retention of the tree because over time, the tree will generate new growth. Works such as this are always a last resort and to mitigate the impact, we will be planting five beech trees in the vicinity of the tree.”

It is not believed that the root system will be touched.

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Mixed reaction

The news has sparked a debate online, with some calling the decision “outrageous”, with others supporting the work in order to save the tree.

South Ribble Borough Council has not been able to provide an exact date when the work will take place.

Asim Khan, Director of Customer and Digital at South Ribble Borough Council said: “Cutting back an established tree is always a last resort; however, the works are necessary to reduce the likelihood of tree failure given the impact of the aggressive fungi at the base of the tree. The stem of the tree has already been decayed by more than 25% and our planned reduction will not only ensure the safety of park users but give the tree the best chance to survive and in time, form a new crown. We are also planting a further five beech trees in the area to make up for the loss’’.

Anyone wanting further information is asked to email: [email protected]