One of the Abbey Garden's older trees, a 'Tree of Heaven' or Ailanthus, planted around 1820 will soon be coming down.
A climbing survey has revealed that the tree, situated to the south of the Abbey Gate entrance, has two extensive cavities and a number of smaller cavities throughout the crown. Sadly the extent of the decay is threatening the structural integrity of the tree and Ailanthus timber is particularly prone to breakage. This means that to leave the tree in place would pose a risk to users of the gardens and adjacent buildings so it needs to be removed. Work is scheduled for 15 September, weather permitting.
Although it is disappointing that this particular tree has to be taken down, there is a good semi-mature specimen of an Ailanthus tree close by that members of the public will still be able to enjoy.
ENDS
ISSUED BY MARIANNE HULLAND, COMMUNICATIONS UNIT, ST EDMUNDSBURY BOROUGH COUNCIL. Tel 01284 757034. marianne.hulland@stedsbc.gov.uk
