A much-loved tree: why it must be felled
Many members of the Southwell community will have noticed the temporary fencing that has been in the Minster churchyard in recent weeks. Due to a precarious overhanging branch, the fencing has kept pedestrians safe while the future of the tree has been assessed by multiple experts. We are very sorry to let you know that we must remove the magnificent old horse chestnut. We know how much trees like this mean to local people, and we have explored every reasonable option for saving it. Sadly, its condition has deteriorated to the point where it can no longer be made safe.
Our priority must be to keep visitors and everyone using the churchyard safe. A large crack has opened up between the trunk and a major branch that overhangs the footpath. The crack will not heal, and there is extensive decay within the trunk, including a deep cavity that allows water to enter and worsen the rot. The tree’s structural integrity has been irreversibly compromised.
The tree has received considerable care in recent years, including canopy reduction and the installation of bracing. An annual tree safety survey in May 2026 recommended further canopy reduction and continued bracing. Since then, due in part to the hot dry weather, the tree has deteriorated significantly. Five different tree-surgery teams have now assessed it, and all have concluded that felling is the only reasonable option. We have of course taken account of independent arboricultural advice provided by Newark and Sherwood District Council.
Removing the dangerous branch alone would not solve the problem. It supports around a third of the tree’s canopy, and removing it would unbalance the tree and create further risks, including to the neighbouring building. We cannot safely leave the tree to decline naturally in its current position beside a well-used footpath.
Caring for the churchyard’s trees
We take the loss of a mature tree seriously. We will plant a replacement elsewhere in the grounds, so that everyone can continue to enjoy the beauty, shade and wildlife that trees bring to the Minster grounds.
We are also talking to local woodworkers and sawmills about ways to give some of the felled timber a new life, perhaps as something useful or beautiful. We hope this will allow something of this remarkable tree to remain part of the Minster’s story.
We are pleased, too, that another beautiful old horse chestnut near the west gate can remain. Although it is of a similar age and condition, its position means it can be retained safely. It is entering a period of ‘veteranisation’, allowing it to decline naturally and continue to provide valuable habitat for wildlife.
Tree surgeons from Anderson Tree Care will be working on site from Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October. Please follow all path diversions and safety notices while this complex work takes place. Thank you for your patience and understanding.