More information about plans for a replacement tree in Victoria Square has been released. It follows the discovery that the existing Norway Maple tree has a compromised root structure and is in poor overall health, meaning that it needs to be removed.
The original proposals for improvements to Ashbourne’s historic Victoria Square, part of the Ashbourne Reborn Highways and Public Realm project led by Derbyshire County Council, proposed the retention of the existing Maple tree. However, when part of the historic surface in Victoria Square was excavated by the County Council’s contractors, allowing further inspection of the tree, concerns were raised regarding its root condition and stability.
Following inspection by the District Council’s Trees and Landscape Officer, it became clear that the Norway Maple tree has been planted in a small hole through thick concrete beneath the limestone setts, and this has constrained the root development of the tree. In addition, the conditions considered likely to exist beneath the concrete are not favourable for healthy root development. This is evidenced by the constricted structure and poor structural condition of the roots and base of the tree trunk that were exposed during removal of the cobbles. The presence of several dead branches, sparse leaf density and small leaves also suggest significant issues with the tree’s rooting system.
A second opinion from an independent arborist and professional tree inspector agreed with the initial assessment, concluding that ‘the tree is considered a poor specimen with limited potential for recovery’ and also recommended the removal of the tree. Following consultation with local members and consideration of the professional advice received, the District Council, as landowner, has deemed it necessary to replace the tree, rather than allowing it to remain with declining health in a busy pedestrian area. To avoid future disruption to businesses and residents, replacement planting is proposed while the construction works are taking place.
The District Council recognises and values the contribution the existing tree makes to the streetscape in terms of visual amenity, provision of shade, character and appearance of the conservation area. For that reason, the replacement Liquidambar tree proposed will be a relatively large specimen. At around 4m it will provide some immediate impact and is expected to grow into an attractive tree of similar stature to the Norway Maple.
The location of this tree in Victoria Square presents a number of challenges, and a wide range of factors were considered in selecting an appropriate species. Known for its glossy, maple-like foliage and stunning orange, crimson and purple autumn colours, Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is commonly planted in built up locations and has good tolerance to the environmental challenges that such urban trees face.
While the poor health of the tree has not been caused by the regeneration works, the ongoing improvements provide an opportunity to install a root protection system which will help create the best conditions for a healthy and longer life for the replacement tree. The contractor carrying out the works on behalf of the County Council, Galliford Try, will be donating the replacement tree.
District Councillor David Hughes, Chair of the Ashbourne Reborn Programme Board said:
‘The original proposal was to retain the Norway Maple in Victoria Square, but unfortunately this has not proved possible. On further inspection by professionals the poor health of the tree has become clear, in particular the condition of the root base. Following their advice, we propose to replace the tree as part of the Ashbourne Reborn highways and public realm works with a tree of size that will be appropriate for its setting in the public square.’
County Councillor Steve Bull, ward member for Ashbourne South, said:
‘I know a lot of people are disappointed to hear that the tree needs to be removed and want to understand whether it is absolutely necessary. That’s why I took the time to visit Victoria Square with the officers concerned and although it is a great shame, I am reassured that the replacement tree will be a suitable size and species for our historic Square.’
Ashbourne Reborn is a £15.9m programme aimed at transforming Ashbourne town centre through significant improvements to highways and public realm and the development of the Link Community Hub. It is funded by UK Central Government via the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).
The District Council is the Accountable Body for Ashbourne Reborn, Derbyshire County Council is responsible for delivering the Highways and Public Realm project and Ashbourne Methodist Church the Link Community Hub. These partners work in collaboration with Ashbourne Town Team, Ashbourne Town Council and AshCom who brought forward proposals, identified opportunities and raised match funding for the original bid.
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