THE 'largest tree' in Worcester is set to undergo maintenance work to control the growth and prevent injuring people.

Worcester City Council is set to carry out work on what is thought to be the largest tree in Worcester.

The poplar is on Hylton Road, close to the River Severn and Sabrina Bridge, and opposite the University of Worcester’s new Elizabeth Garrett Anderson medical centre.

Several of its branches are growing out over the road and footpaths. A large branch fell off the tree last year, and Worcester City Council is concerned that others could do the same, potentially injuring people.

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To reduce the risk, the council will be carrying out pollarding work on the tree, removing its upper branches to control its future growth.

Cllr Zoe Cookson, vice chair of the city council’s environment committee, said: “We value all the beautiful trees in our city and we want to retain them as far as possible, but we do need to ensure they are safe.

“There is a real risk of heavy branches falling from this tree in Hylton Road, so from now on we will be pollarding it on a regular schedule to keep its growth at a safe and manageable level.

“Poplars react well to pollarding, and this one is very healthy so it will continue to be part of our beautiful award-winning Riverside Park for many, many years to come.”

The tree was pollarded in the past, but for a long time has been growing unrestricted, and has now reached an exceptional size.

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It is currently around 36 metres (118 feet) high and its canopy has a diameter of around 32 metres (105 feet).

The work on the poplar is due to start on Tuesday, July 25 as long as the weather conditions are ok.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place on the day while the work is carried out.

Worcester City Council is a Champion City in the National Queen’s Green Canopy scheme, with more than 6,000 trees planted in the city in recent years.