Ashby Town Council defends its decision to fell a beloved tree due to safety concerns after a fungal infection made it dangerous
Ashby: The council has stirred up quite a buzz after cutting down a tree many called the town’s “most beautiful.” They said they had no choice because the tree was becoming dangerous.
This common beech tree, located in Ashby’s Bath Grounds, was taken down on January 8. It had been suffering from a fungal infection that made it diseased, a problem first spotted back in 2020.
Officials kept an eye on it over the years, but they finally decided it was time to act. The infection caused serious decay at the base and roots, which made it unsafe.
People are pretty upset about the decision. One person online even said it felt like their “childhood being felled” along with the tree. It’s clear that this tree held a special place in many hearts.
But there’s a silver lining! The council announced that they’ll plant 19 new semi-mature trees in the park over the next year. So, while it’s sad to see the old tree go, there’s hope for the future.
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