A tree that collapsed during last winter’s major storms has finally been removed from the middle of a Gosforth park.
Local councillors complained last week that the large tree lying in the picnic area of Gosforth Central Park posed a danger to children climbing on it and that residents were fed up with the sight of it. But, almost seven months since the tree came down during Storm Malik at the end of January, parks staff have finally removed it.
Urban Green Newcastle, the charity which is now in charge of Newcastle’s parks, came to inspect and remove the tree on Monday and says it will now be turned into woodchips that will be put back into the park. An Urban Green Newcastle spokesperson said: “As part of our ongoing clean up operation following the unprecedented winter storms, Urban Green Newcastle’s rangers visited Gosforth Central Park as planned on Monday to assess the mature fallen tree in the park.
Read More: Grainger Market restoration hit by yet another setback with works to drag on for 'a number of weeks'
“Following an initial inspection, it was clear we could safely remove the fallen tree without causing any disruption to other trees, planting and wildlife in the park. In keeping with our commitment to protect and preserve the environment, we’re able to recycle every part of the tree by working with the Friends of Gosforth Central Park to create woodchip for use under picnic tables and through the Friends’ willow tunnel.
" Together, we’re also planning to improve wildlife habitats in the park by creating log piles in the nature area. Once the woodchip and logs have been recycled throughout the park, a final clear up and reseeding will take place to allow the area to recover and thrive."
Gosforth Lib Dem councillor Tom Woodwark was relieved to see that the tree had finally been moved after joking last week that it would soon be in need of Christmas decorations. He said: "At long last Urban Green have taken action. I'm glad we've got something done, it's so sad it's taken so long. I can safely put the Christmas decorations away!"
Urban Green also came under fire earlier this month from park-goers in Gosforth over plans to remove a popular coffee vendor, before a U-turn that allowed Jonny Graham to keep his pitch for another year.
Read More:
- £130m lifeline to stave off bus route cuts is a 'sticking plaster', North East council leader warns
- Council scales back plan to slash carers' sleep-in pay – but will still cut rates by more than 20%
- Locals warned for years of fire risk at derelict Gosforth care home, councillor complains
- ‘People are going to die’ – North East charity terrified by cost of living nightmare this winter
- 'Better... but not world class' – Ouseburn Trust chief reacts to new plan for controversial Malmo Quay site
