Outcry over felling of Nenagh church trees

Safety concerns have been cited over the felling of six large trees in the grounds of St Mary of the Rosary Church in Nenagh last week.

Several local people took to Facebook to express anger and dismay following the cutting down of the three chestnut, two sycamore and one lime tree, which are believed to have been 70 to 80 years old. A statement posted on the Nenagh Parish website indicated that the decision to fell the trees, which lined the St Mary's Convent Primary School side of the church grounds, was “based on health and safety guidance”.

“These trees are located along a footpath, public road and opposite a primary school where young children and members of their family congregate,” the statement reads. “The trees were assessed and found to be in a dangerous condition needing immediate attention.

“During the two storms last autumn 2020 (Ellen, August 19th and Francis, August 25th) it became apparent that action was needed. Since then preparations have been put in place to rectify the situation.”

Parish Priest Fr Des Hillery said the trees were inspected by a number of tree surgeons. Their proximity to the school was a particular concern. Trimming the trees was discussed, but the Parish Council was advised that the trees would ultimately have to be felled altogether because they were leaning out towards the road. Some of the filled timber would be used as mulch in the church grounds.

Fr Hillery said he did not think there would be a need to cut down any more trees in the grounds because the other trees are better positioned in relation to the surrounding roads and footpaths. He mentioned the number of new trees that have been planted in the grounds over recent years, and outlined plans to plant more this year, possibly as part of National Tree Week and involving local schoolchildren.

The Parish website statement outlines a plan to replant the felled trees with trees suitable to an urban environment. “These trees will be planted in March / April of this year and will be varieties that will not grow to a dangerous height.

“In the last few years a number of trees have been planted in the grounds of St Mary of the Rosary, namely six mountain ash were planted during the Parish Mission 2018. Additionally, to commemorate Nenagh 800 an Irish oak along with eight fruit trees were planted during 2020. The type of tree to be planted replacing the ones felled has yet to be decided as we await advice and availability.”

Fr Hillery believed future generations would appreciate the work that is being done in the church grounds. He said the bottom line in the matter is people's safety.