MAJOR tree works will take place at Whitehall Recreation Ground in the next few weeks as damaged and dying trees are replaced.
Following the sudden collapse of a horse chestnut in August, and another during Storm Doris in February, survey work has revealed several horse chestnuts at the park are cankerous and unstable.
These include all of the horse chestnuts that face Hillmorton Road on either side of the memorial gates. Mature chestnuts will be planted this winter to replace them.
Two lime trees will also be removed to prevent further damage to the bandstand.
Rugby Borough Council environment and public realm spokeswoman Coun Lisa Parker said: “The horse chestnuts have been a feature of the recreation ground since they were planted more than a century ago, but sadly they are now reaching the end of their life.
“With careful maintenance, the replacement trees should last another hundred years.
“With restoration work planned for the bandstand, removing the two adjacent lime trees will help prevent future damage and ensure the bandstand will be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Visit www.rugby.gov.uk/whitehallrec for more information on the tree works and the restoration of the recreation ground.
