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Maintenance work to be carried out on biggest tree in Worcester

Published: 21 July 2023

Work is due to be carried out to control the growth of what is thought to be the largest tree in Worcester.

The poplar is on Hylton Road, close to the river Severn and Sabrina Bridge, and opposite the University of Worcester's new Elizabeth Garrett Anderson medical centre. Several of its branches are growing out over the road and footpaths.

A large branch fell off the tree last year, and Worcester City Council is concerned that others could do the same, potentially injuring people.

To reduce the risk, the Council will be carrying out pollarding work on the tree, removing its upper branches to control its future growth.

Councillor Zoe Cookson, Vice Chair of the City Council's Environment Committee, said: "We value all the beautiful trees in our city and we want to retain them as far as possible, but we do need to ensure they are safe.

"There is a real risk of heavy branches falling from this tree in Hylton Road, so from now on we will be pollarding it on a regular schedule to keep its growth at a safe and manageable level.

"Poplars react well to pollarding, and this one is very healthy so it will continue to be part of our beautiful award-winning Riverside Park for many, many years to come."

The tree was pollarded in the past, but for a long time has been growing unrestricted, and has now reached an exceptional size. It is currently around 36 metres (118 feet) high and its canopy has a diameter of around 32 metres (105 feet).

The work on the poplar is due to start on Tuesday 25 July, weather permitting. Temporary traffic lights will be in place on the day while the work is carried out.

Worcester City Council is a Champion City in the national Queen's Green Canopy scheme, with more than 6,000 trees planted in the city in recent years. 


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