During Storm Lillian, the large Horse Chestnut trees in the Minster churchyard have been damaged.
The Horse Chestnut by the Refectory suffered a major fracture down the base of the weighty limb that reaches across the well-worn footpath that runs between Church Street and Memorial Park. This requires immediate action to make it safe for the surrounding businesses and all the people who enter the churchyard.
To take the weight off the fracture the canopy of the tree will be reduced by 30% and the remaining canopy will be thinned by 20%. Any dead, diseased or crossing branches will be removed and bracing will be put in the tree to secure the fractured limb. The tree will look very different afterwards, but the important thing is it will be safe.
Whilst these works take place, the path to the side of the Refectory will be closed and so access will be through The Cathedral Shop. Works are scheduled to last three days, 5-7 September. Cordon tape and signage is in place for safety reasons around various trees in the churchyard and so for your safety, please do not cross these areas.
Access to the Minster can be made via any of the other entrance points on Church Street, Westgate or next to Trebeck Hall.
Thank you for your co-operation.