Work To Be Carried Out On Historic Tree In Hailsham High Street

A significant programme of work is to be carried out on the horse chestnut tree in Hailsham High Street.

The tree, which was established in 1840 next to the war memorial and is currently 13 metres in height is showing signs of extensive hollowing within the stem, which has compromised its stability. Significant work will therefore be carried out on the tree on Friday 14th August in order to keep the tree in a safe condition for members of the public.

Hailsham Town Council‘s Tree Warden has been closely monitoring the health of the tree with the assistance of an Arboriculture Association approved consultant and will reduce the tree in height by 2-3 metres, undertaking the necessary pruning of the crown on the canopy over the footpath.

To coincide with the crown reduction work, a low fence will be erected around the base of the tree to discourage pedestrians from walking underneath the canopy, which will prevent future trip hazard incidents caused by protruding tree roots and uneven surface.

“Residents will see the work being carried out on 14th August and we wanted to let them know what is going on and why,” said the Town Council’s Works Supervisor Richard Gillett, who stated it was the right decision to bring in specialists to carry out the survey which identified these problems.

“Due to the tree’s increasing hollowing near its base, it is now the case that in order to retain the tree in an acceptably safe condition and free of structural failure, significant work is required.”

Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman commented: “The horse chestnut tree makes a significant historical link to the use of the town centre in the middle 1800s and it would be deplorable if it were lost to present and future generations of Hailsham.”

“I’d like to thank both our Works Supervisor and our Tree Warden for doing all they can to prolong the tree’s life, whilst maintaining public safety as the key priority from the outset.”

Sam Spiers, who is the Town Council’s Tree Warden commented: “The pro-active management of the veteran horse chestnut in the High Street is essential for its survival. The works to be undertaken will alleviate the weight within the crown and help prevent any future branch or stem failure, in turn promoting the longevity of this historical tree for future generations to enjoy.”