Haywards Heath tree trimming criticised: crown removed from ‘ancient oak’ in Scrase Valley Nature Reserve

Resident John Pilkington sent the Middy a photograph of what he said was an ‘ancient oak’ in Scrase Valley Nature Reserve.

It shows that the tree had its crown reduced on Monday, January 23.

John said: “The council is making a mistake in damaging this tree, which has lived happily for at least 300 years without human assistance.”

He said tree surgeons told him that a tomogram had revealed rot in the base and that a fungus called Ganoderma is living in it.

But John added: “It is widely recognised that fungal decay of this kind is a natural process in oak trees of this age. Left alone, the trunk will become a hollow cylinder, the most efficient weight supporting structure. The council is naturally concerned to cover itself in case of accident, but the chance of that if the tree were left alone seems very remote. Arguably, damaging the tree in the way illustrated by the photo increases the chance that it will die, in which case it would represent a greater danger to public safety, and be more expensive to deal with.”

Deputy Leader of Mid Sussex District Council John Belsey said: “The Council regularly inspects its tree stock in line with most recent best practice. Officers recommend works that ensure the continued health of the tree and the safety of those who might be living, working or using facilities in the area surrounding the tree.

“The oak tree has been managed and monitored over many years, and recent internal investigations showed significant decay developing in the lower part of the trunk. It was determined that the tree required significant crown reduction. By reducing the crown, the tree will be more protected from exposure to the wind and there will be reduced pressure on its primary branches, decreasing the risk of limb or stem failure. The works are being carried out now, while the tree is in its dormancy phase, before the onset of growth and regrowth.

“The tree will require regular inspections and maintenance going forward but our actions should help it survive for many years to come.”