Trees earmarked for felling at Higher Town Green in Knutsford

Permission for work on 13 trees in the area, including the felling of nine, is being sought from Cheshire East Council by Knutsford Town Council.

The land in question is in a Conservation Area, and Higher Town Green hosts mainly oak, holly and sycamore trees, with other species including four silver birch, one cherry with numerous saplings and one yew.

None of the trees are covered by a tree preservation order.

A report to Cheshire East said it is recommended to remove an oak tree due to its acute lean towards the lawn.

The report said: “A sycamore has a large area of decay at the base and requires removal.

“A silver birch has been dead for some time and requires felling.

A plan of the trees earmarked for work

“Two hollies have extensive decay close to the ground possibly caused by mechanical damage, they also require removal.

“Two oaks have dead stems which require removal and the dead sycamore against the boundary fence of West Court also requires removal.

“On the same boundary is a partially uprooted silver birch. Removal is also recommended.

“A sycamore located close to the north boundary has two dead lower branches that require removal.

“An area comprises three oak trees; one has fallen and is suspended.

“It is recommended that it is felled to lessen risk. Another oak has broken in half at about 10 metres and the top of the tree is leaning against the trunk.

“The leaning section should be disposed of and it is recommended the remaining stem should be reduced to five metres.

“There is also a dead oak tree stem clad in ivy which requires felling.”