Wadebridge’s Egloshayle Road trees are about to look very different

The trees along Egloshayle Road in Wadebridge are due a trim. For some of them, it will be a big one.

Wadebridge Town Council says tree maintenance works will take place along the road over the coming weeks. Both pollarding and crown raising are planned.

The work is part of the council’s ongoing Tree Management Plan, which aims to keep trees across Wadebridge maintained safely, responsibly and sustainably.

Why the lower branches are coming off

Crown raising means selectively removing a tree’s lower branches so there is enough clearance above roads and pavements.

This part of the job follows a request from Cornwall Council Highways. The aim is to make sure the trees don’t obstruct vehicles or pedestrians and that the required highway clearances are kept.

The town council calls it an important safety measure that should reduce the risk of accidents and keep Egloshayle Road safe for everyone using it.

What pollarding means for the bigger trees

Pollarding is the more dramatic of the two jobs. It’s an established technique where the upper branches are removed periodically to control a tree’s size and growth.

The council says that, when it’s carried out appropriately, pollarding:

• Helps manage the size and shape of mature trees
• Reduces the weight and spread of branches, helping to manage potential risks
• Encourages controlled regrowth and supports long-term tree management
• Reduces potential conflicts with nearby roads, buildings and other infrastructure
• Helps keep established trees in the local landscape rather than requiring their removal

Where the work will take place

The works cover Egloshayle Road within the area marked in red on the council’s map. That includes the boundary alongside Egloshayle Playing Fields and the surrounding recreational facilities.

What to expect while it’s under way

Residents and road users may see some temporary disruption while the work is carried out, and safety measures will be put in place where needed.

The council says it will try to keep disruption to a minimum and has thanked residents for their patience and understanding.

No firm start or finish date has been given beyond “the coming weeks”.

📷The tree works area along Egloshayle Road, marked in red. Map: Wadebridge Town Council