Council announces removal of Victorian oak tree

Pruning works carried out to prolong the life of the tree were not successful, said the council

A historic oak tree in Warwickshire will be removed due to rotting affecting its structural integrity.

The Holm Oak Tree at Jephson Gardens in Royal Leamington Spa will be cut down on Tuesday.

Warwick District Council said it made the decision with "great sadness", but the tree did not respond to pollarding works carried out to try and prolong its life.

A statement said basal decay was found in the tree and it needed to be removed to ensure the safety of people using the park.

The tree, shortlisted for Tree of the Year in 2023, is located between the lake and bedding area along the main path through Jephson Gardens.

With its distinctive twisted branches, it was one of the original trees to be planted when the land and walks along the River Leam were developed into formal gardens during the 1840s.

Councillor Will Roberts said that while the decision is sad, the safety of the public must come first.

He said: "I am grateful to the Green Spaces team and colleagues from Warwickshire County Council for the work they do to preserve and maintain our wonderful collection of mature trees, which are such an asset to our town."

The area around the tree will be cordoned off while the works take place and the seating around the tree will be retained.

The council said a replacement tree will be planted nearby.