VIDEO: Stroud Green trees: All poplar trees will be felled by the end of the year amid safety concerns
The first six trees have been removed from a Newbury park over safety concerns – with the rest expected to be felled by the end of the year.
The iconic Lombardy poplars, which have stood proudly on Stroud Green for around 60 years, were showing signs of decay during a recent tree inspection.
And West Berkshire Council has now confirmed that it expects to remove the remaining trees within the next 12 months.
Janine Lewis (Lib Dem, Tilehurst and Purley), executive member for public health, culture, leisure, sport and countryside at West Berkshire Council, said: “We appreciate that these trees are locally significant and well recognised, as the trees served a purpose to protect royalty and add to the grandeur as an avenue of green guards on duty.
“To continue the legacy, as enjoyed by the late Queen, we intend to plant new trees to replace the ones taken away and will work to create a similar tree-lined avenue which will have an appealing view for all generations who pass under the boughs to enjoy.”
In the last three years four of the trees have come down in high winds – two across Racecourse Road and two falling across the green itself.
The most recent one came down on January 2, as Storm Henk battered the district.
Poplars usually have a lifespan of 50-60 years, but as they mature, the lower stems start to develop basal cavity formation with decay extending into the roots, leading to a reduction in structural stability and an increase in stem hollowing.
Last week’s felling of the first six trees was work that needed to be done immediately for safety reasons, said the council, and it is now asking the public for its views on which trees should replace them.
You can email the team with your views on the trees at Stroud Green at trees@westberks.gov.uk.
“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate these necessary measures for the safety and sustainability of our community,” the council added.
