'Dying' tree at La Collette Gardens due to be felled

Wednesday 27 January 2021

A longstanding tree at La Collette Gardens is scheduled to be felled in the coming weeks over concerns a fungal disease may put it at risk of falling.

The maple tree at Fisherman’s Cottage has Phytophthora, a fungal disease which affects its roots.

According to a public notice from the Parish of St. Helier, the “tree is dying due to the disease and, although not currently dangerous, it will become so as the structure weakens.”

Pictured: The tree is scheduled to be felled in the coming weeks.

After liaising with Nick Armstrong, the Government's Arboricultural Officer, the Parish have decided to remove the tree and replace it with one that can withstand the fungal infection.  

The tree is located on the dividing wall between the path and Fisherman’s cottage. 

A date to topple it hasn't yet been set, but the Parish confirmed that the gardens’ paths will be closed and signage in place to ensure safety. They also promised that no chainsaws would be used in the early morning.

It is the second removal of a historic tree in St. Helier so far this year, after an Evergreen branded as an “immediate danger to life” at Howard Davis Park was felled earlier in the month.