Horse Chestnut Tree, The Green – Update

A horse chestnut tree on The Green was carefully felled on 16 April 2026, following an assessment which found it to be unsafe. The tree was estimated to be around 120 years old, although local historical sources suggest it may have been older. The summary below is based on an account kindly shared by a local resident with the This is Dunnington Facebook group, along with photographs documenting the process.

The team carried out the felling with great care, cutting a wedge and using a rope attached to a tractor to guide the tree safely to the ground. A large stump was positioned to help break the fall and minimise damage to the surrounding grass. The process was carried out smoothly, with one of the team explaining each step along the way.

Images of the base of the tree show that it was unfortunately rotten at its core. The interior had broken down significantly, with material resembling compost and only a few fine roots remaining. The tree appeared to have been attempting to regenerate internally. It was also noted that the tree had been braced with metal in the past, which may have contributed to its decline.

While it is always sad to lose a long-standing feature of the village, the condition of the tree meant it posed a risk, and its removal was necessary to ensure public safety.

Following questions from residents, the Parish Council can confirm that the wood from the horse chestnut tree has not been removed by the contractor and is currently being stored. Its future use will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting.

The brash has been chipped and taken for use at Hassacarr Nature Reserve.

Local History

A resident has also shared an interesting historical note. According to Glimpses into Dunnington Past by Kay Wheater, the horse chestnut trees on the village green were planted in 1863 to commemorate the wedding of the Prince of Wales and Princess Alexandra of Denmark.