Council surveys follow sudden collapse of bough last month
One of Solihull’ s most ancient trees – which dates from the reign of King Henry VIII – could be “nearing the end of its lifespan”.
Elmdon Park’s sweet chestnut, which marked its 500th year in 2018, was recently the centre of concern after one of its ageing boughs broke.
The weighty piece of timber damaged the metal railings encircling the site when it came crashing to the ground last month.
The incident prompted investigations by the council’s experts, who have warned that assessments show there could be signs of further decay.
It’s now intended to remove some other branches in order to ensure that the landmark does not pose a public safety risk.
Cllr Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for environment and infrastructure, said: “A member of our forestry team has been out to inspect the sweet chestnut and advise on its condition.
“Unfortunately the tree is showing clear signs that it is nearing the end of its lifespan and there is some evidence of internal decay which is typical of many veteran trees.
The sweet chestnut in Elmdon Park, Solihull, pictured after a fallen bough damaged some of the railings surrounding it. (Image: Steve Dixon)
“To ensure continued public safety while balancing the dignity of the tree as well as the educational and habitat benefits associated with such a landmark tree, some further branch pruning works will be undertaken before October.
“This will involve shortening some of the larger branches so that they are either in line with the position of the perimeter fencing or inside this line.
“If possible the final cuts will mimic natural storm damage so that the tree looks in keeping with its setting.”
Brought to British shores by the Romans, sweet chestnut are often renowned for long life – with some specimens known to have survived more than 700 years.
Elmdon’s began life in 1518 – the year that the future Queen Mary was pledged to marry French Royalty and citizens were living in fear of “the sweating sickness” epidemic.
The sweet chestnut is held in great affection by those who live nearby, with one local woman recalling how she had known it as “the octopus tree” as a child.
A fellow resident said her family sung it “happy birthday” every year.
“That tree has stood here for so long and must have witnessed so much change, I feel we should honour that,” she said.
Cllr Laura McCarthy (Lib Dem, Elmdon) described the landmark as “a lovely old tree”, well-known to park visitors.
Ward councillors had been kept updated about the inspection carried out by Glendale, the council’s contractor for tree management.
Officials were quick to confirm the fall – reported on July 29 – was due to natural ageing, rather than any sort of vandalism or human interference.
Cllr McCarthy confirmed that there had been talks with the Elmdon Park Support Group about salvaging the fallen bough to make a park seat or other permanent feature.
“We had asked to see if the limb could be saved and if we could make it into an artwork or a bench but unfortunately the timber wasn’t good enough quality.”
Source: birminghammail.co.uk
