Work to trees in Queen's Park

Charnwood Borough Council is planning to carry out work to around 10 declining trees in Queen’s Park in Loughborough which will help increase biodiversity in the area.

Many of the trees which are being removed will be replaced by broadleaf species which is in keeping with the park when it was opened in 1899.

The trees identified for removal are either in decline or dead and could pose a health and safety issue if they are not removed. Some of the trees were removed in December 2023.

The Council maintains the award-winning Queen’s Park and this work will help keep that high standard for years to come.

Work to remove the remaining trees is due to take place from Monday, January 29.

Which trees are being removed?

Mature sweet chestnut tree located at the back of the aviary

This needs to be removed due to the structure of the trunk being damaged and damaging the aviary.

Some of the timber from this tree will be used to create a carving for the park.

Two mature conifers between the bandstand and the Carillon Tower

The two mature conifers will need to be removed due to them becoming over-mature and showing signs of damage and poor health.

These will be replaced with two multi-stemmed white birches.

Semi-mature conifers located at Granby Street entrance

These trees have grown weakly and block the natural sunlight, which has a negative impact on local biodiversity.

These will be replaced with suitable planting.

Horse chestnut opposite Swan Maze

This tree has been removed due to it being in severe decline.

Lime tree opposite Swan Maze

This tree had Ganoderma growing on the main stem and causes the tree to decay. This tree has been removed.

A low-level monolith will be left to create a habitat for wildlife.

Lime tree in the children’s play area

This tree has been removed due to it being in severe decline.  

Copper beech tree near Swan Maze

A crown reduction will be carried out on this tree, in the hope that it will improve. The progress of this tree will be closely monitored.

Sycamore tree located opposite the children’s play area

This tree will need to be removed due to its timber rotting. A low-level monolith will be left to create a habitat for wildlife.

Will the park/play area be open when the work takes place?

The areas of the declining trees will be closed when removal work takes place.

The rest of Queen’s Park will remain open.

What will be planted in the place of the trees which have been removed?

All trees will be replaced with either new tree saplings or broadleaf species.

Planting will take place once the removal work has been completed.