An iconic tree in a west Dublin park is set to be removed this week due to its declining health.
The Old Beech tree in St Catherine's Park will see its time come to an end on Saturday.
The 270-year-old tree is located on the southern side of the pathway which runs along the floodplain.
The path meanders downwards from the Old church, toward the River Liffey and the weir located adjacent to the woodland walk.
Fingal County Council has made the decision after carrying out a series of tests.
It said: "It is necessary to remove the Old Beech tree located on the southern side of St Catherine’s Park, Dublin 15.
"This decision was made following evidence of decline identified during monitoring and a comprehensive assessment, and because of its location along a pedestrian pathway.
"The removal of this tree is due to occur on Saturday February 8th and it is also planned to plant new trees adjacent to this Beech tree current location in the future to compensate for its loss."
They continued: "Due to its location along a pedestrian pathway of this public park, it is essential that safety is to the forefront of all decisions relating to park management.
"Looking toward the future, the intention to reduce the tree down to a safe standing height will potentially allow us to create a sculpture at a later date.
"However, the feasibility of creating a sculpture on the standing monolith will depend on the condition of the remaining internal structure and therefore this will be investigated and assessed following the works.
"The principal objective of any sculpture is to honour the history of the park and commemorate the presence and historical value of this Beech tree within the antiquity of St Catherine’s Park.
"It is also planned to plant new trees adjacent to this Beech tree current location to compensate for its loss."
You can find out more about the plans here.
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