Council backtracks on Tarmac tree to allow water access

The Tarmac covering the roots of a high street tree may be replaced with an alternative surface.
An earlier photo shows the tree was completely Tarmacked over to the trunkAn earlier photo shows the tree was completely Tarmacked over to the trunk
An earlier photo shows the tree was completely Tarmacked over to the trunk

The story about the tree sparked much debate on social media, after a photo showing its Tarmacked base was sent in by reader Graham Lelliott, of Busticle Lane, Sompting.

Mr Lelliott, who works at Marks and Spencers nearby and sees the tree everyday, feared it would not receive enough water and asked: “How on earth will this tree survive?”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A spokesperson from West Sussex County Council said the Tarmacking had been carried out as a repair, to ensure the area remained safe for pedestrians.

Alterations have been made to the Tarmacked treeAlterations have been made to the Tarmacked tree
Alterations have been made to the Tarmacked tree

“Reasonably mature trees such as this generally will not have an issue getting adequate water when Tarmacked over,” said the spokesperson.

Several trees in Worthing were similarly Tarmacked over, the spokesperson added, and said: “However the vitality of the tree is very important to us, so we will monitor this location and take additional measures if appropriate.”

On Sunday, Mr Lelliott sent another photo, which showed the Tarmac immediately surrounding the trunk had been replaced with small stones.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: “It would appear that after the Herald were in contact with the council, they have admitted that it wasn’t the best idea their contractors had had.”

Alterations have been made to the Tarmacked treeAlterations have been made to the Tarmacked tree
Alterations have been made to the Tarmacked tree

The county council spokesperson said: “Following an inspection, it was agreed to carry out interim works so the tree could have additional access to water directly from the surface.”

The council was now looking into putting down an alternative to the Tarmac, including a tree guard, the spokesperson said.

Mr Lelliott commented: “It’s great the Herald has such influence on local issues and would urge readers to make use of the Herald to bring their view or concerns across.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage at www.worthingherald.co.uk/

2) Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Worthing.news

3) Follow us on Twitter @Worthing_Herald

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

The Worthing Herald - always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.