A mature copper beech tree in the grounds of Bishopscourt, the residence of the Bishop of Rochester, is to be felled because of concerns for public safety.
The tree, which stands in a prominent position behind an historic wall at the front of the residence on St Margaret’s Street, is a familiar feature on the road.
A recent independent assessment of the tree confirmed the presence of decay, raising concerns over the tree’s health and stability.
Image: This image shows the results of a sonic scan of the tree. It shows the decay as well as the areas where the fungus has colonised wood (coloured green), indicating that very little of the tree has been left unaffected.
Although the tree is not protected by a tree preservation order, it does grow in a Conservation Area. In view of this, Medway Council was given six weeks’ notice of the intention to remove it.
Medway Council responded to this notice by advising residents and visitors via site notices and, on 25 September, confirmed it did not object to the removal of this tree, and would therefore not be making a tree preservation order.
Work to safely fell the tree will take place on Tuesday 28 and Wednesday 29 November.
Image: Public notices about the application and an invitation to make comments were displayed.
Bishop Jonathan Gibbs, the Bishop of Rochester said:
“My wife Toni and I are deeply saddened at the loss of this beautiful tree, which has been such a constant and familiar feature of Bishopscourt. We know that many residents will, like us, be upset to see this tree come down."
He continued:
“However, the safety of passers-by, which includes many school children, as well as Bishopscourt staff and visitors is paramount, and we just cannot risk someone being seriously injured.”
The tree was identified for assessment when signs of fungal growth were spotted around the base of the tree, raising safety concerns that warranted a closer look.
An independent expert brought in to survey the tree found significant areas of decay as a result of a fungus called Kretzschmaria deusta.
More commonly known as ‘Brittle Cinder Fungus’, this fungus causes soft rot and later white rot of the wood. It often leads to failure of seemingly healthy trees and is thought to be more virulent during drought.
Dieback of branches on the top of the tree was also identified, leading the expert to conclude that an irreversible decline in the health of the tree was to be expected and that there would be no benefit in reducing the size of the tree in an attempt to keep it for longer.
Image: A range of assessments were undertaken on the tree in order to establish its condition.
Commenting on the decision, Cllr Simon Curry, Portfolio Holder for Climate Change and Strategic Regeneration said:
“Approving the felling of a mature tree like this is not something we take lightly. Given this tree’s size and proximity to the street, as well as several nearby buildings, any collapse could cause serious injury.
“Based on this, and the minimal impact other interventions would make on the health of the tree itself, it is with deep regret that the tree must be felled.”
Positive action has already been taken to help mitigate against the loss of the tree, with a shortlist for a suitable replacement tree being discussed, with a decision expected shortly.
Key links
Medway Council Planning Portal
Independent Tree Report for Bishopscourt Copper Beech Tree