During tree safety inspections in July 2023 it was noted that a beech tree (approx. 75cm DBH / 28m tall - TS2 24 on map) had dead branches within the the upper crown. It was decided to monitor the decline and return in summer 2024 to re-survey. On subsequent visits and a survey in summer 2024 further decline of the canopy was observed. A professional tree works contractor observed honey fungus and Ganoderma spp. around the northern side of the base of the tree in September 2024. It is likely the tree has suffered compaction of the root plate due to cars parking on the verge. Likely outcome is dead branches falling onto the road or complete failure of the tree due to fungal decay of the root plate - tree is weighted over the road. It is our proposal (due to the tree overhanging the road) to fell the tree leaving a 4m monolith with coronation cut as standing dead wood - short enough that it will not fall onto the road or path once fully decayed. All arisings will be kept on site as fallen dead wood habitat. Replacement planting in this narrow strip of land is not favourable and instead allowing natural regeneration of native flora will be the primary driver for future vegetation cover.

Henley Golf Club, Harpsden, RG9 4HG