Request to prune trees in safety drive

A CIVIC-MINDED resident has asked council bosses if he can prune a tree amid fears its low-hanging branches could pose a risk to kids.

The local has submitted an application to Rossendale Borough Council to trim the sycamore tree on the green in Springbank Gardens in Goodshaw.

Although the resident owns part of the land, the remainder is understood to belong to the local authority and they have sought clarification regarding the legality of pruning the tree.

A report from Growth Lancashire Ltd, which undertakes tree services across the county, said that while ownership of the land must be confirmed the tree in question could, in theory, be crown raised by up to 2.5 metres. The report adds that although it is acceptable for an individual to prune the tree “it will be required to be completed to British standards”.

The application read: “There is a sycamore tree on the green on Springbank Gardens, the green is D-shaped and I own most of the green, there is a part of the green that is not owned by me I presume this is council owned/un-adopted.

“On this part not on our title are two trees. The sycamore tree’s branches hang down to less than one metre from the ground this is causing a risk to the children playing on the green and could cause a serious injury to an eye. We are looking for permission to prune the low hanging branches to reduce any health and safety risk from the tree to make the area a safe area for children to play. We are happy to undertake the pruning.”

In suggested conditions, should the application be approved, Growth Lancashire said the work should be “carried out in accordance with good arboricultural practice”.

The pruning should be carried out within two years of approval being granted.