Barton House Rectory Lane Meonstoke Hampshire SO32 3NF

Proposal

T1 Ash Advanced Ash Dieback (ADB) and Recent Structural Failures To tightly pollard all union stems from the first bifurcation joint. T1 is an Ash tree exhibiting advanced symptoms of Ash Dieback together with recent significant bow/limb failures. The tree has developed multiple substantial union stems from the first bifurcation, which are becoming increasingly vulnerable to further failure as the tree?s physiological condition and ability to maintain sound woody tissue decline. It is proposed to tightly pollard all union stems back to the first bifurcation joint. This is considered an appropriate management intervention to retain the tree in situ whilst substantially reducing the extent and weight of the existing crown and, consequently, the loading and potential failure forces acting through the compromised stems and unions. The proposed works would retain the principal stem structure and allow the tree to be maintained as a reduced pollard rather than requiring complete removal at this stage. This provides an opportunity to retain the tree as a living feature within the landscape and to continue to provide ecological and amenity benefits, including habitat potential associated with standing deadwood and future retrenchment. The tree would be subject to ongoing inspection and future management as necessary, recognising that its condition may continue to deteriorate because of Ash Dieback. Should the tree subsequently become incapable of being safely retained, further management or removal could then be considered based on its condition at that time.