Leaning Tree Collapses on Busy Cheshire Road Days After Council Deemed It Safe

A tree, previously noted for its precarious lean, collapsed onto a heavily trafficked road in Cheshire, occurring mere days after a council assessment concluded it presented no immediate risk. The incident, which took place on Sunday in Hartford, Northwich, saw the tree strike and damage walls flanking both sides of the A559, with one at St John’s Church being among the affected properties. Local councillor Martin Loftus stated: “It fell at about 5pm in an area that is often extremely busy and often has queuing traffic, so we were very, very lucky that nobody was injured or worse.” Cheshire West and Chester Council reported that although its inspectors had determined the tree was “not in imminent danger of falling,” the assessment was conducted under challenging conditions, exacerbated by the presence of another fallen tree. The council further indicated that it had recommended the landowner engage a tree specialist to examine the tree “as soon as possible.” David Cheeseman recounted to the BBC that he was driving with his family when “it crashed down right in front of us.” He further explained, “We moved to a safe place and then a vehicle drove into the felled tree whilst it was lying across the road.” Loftus stated that he had contacted the council on 15 December and was informed that inspectors had already visited the site to examine the tree. He observed that the tree’s lean had seemingly become more pronounced recently, subsequent to Storm Darragh. The councillor also commented: “I think a lot of the anger and anxiety is driven by what could have happened.” Loftus expressed his belief that this incident marked the third tree fall in the vicinity within the last four years. He encouraged homeowners possessing large trees to commission a survey if they suspect damage or perceive any danger. The council confirmed that the tree has since been cleared and the road has been reopened to traffic. The authority also stated it is in communication with the landowner regarding other trees “which may require action.”