Landmark tree axed due to disease

Bat boxes will be placed in a nearby tree to provide new roosts

A 150-year-old walnut tree in the grounds of Cirencester Abbey is being cut down because it is a safety risk.

Cotswold District Council said the walnut was infected by a fungus that causes dangerous wood decay.

The tree, marked for felling after a regular inspection, is being cut down by specialists.

An ecologist and a police wildlife liaison officer are also present as it is possible bats may be using cavities in the trunk as a roost.

Councillor John Birch, the authority's portfolio holder for development services, said: "It is always a sad day when any tree has to be felled, especially one which is a distinctive local landmark.

"However, I must stress that this decision has not been taken lightly.

"When a decay fungus like this is found on a large tree near a busy footpath, we have to take action to ensure passers-by are not put at risk."

He said there was no cure for the disease and the tree could topple over without warning.

Any sections which may house bats will be carefully lowered to the ground using ropes.

Bat boxes will be placed in a nearby tree to provide new roosts.

Roman archaeology beneath the abbey grounds prevents a replacement being planted, the council said.

Because the tree is decayed it does not have any significant timber value, but the majority of the wood will be converted to chip which will be recycled.