The large tree, which has stood as a prominent feature of the campus landscape for many years, has been monitored annually since 2020. Despite showing remarkable resilience, this summer’s inspection confirmed increased symptoms of ash dieback, including signs of decay and deadwood in the canopy. A new fungal growth, associated with branch failure, has also been observed.
Ash dieback is a serious fungal disease which affects ash trees across the UK and Europe. It spreads via airborne spores and typically leads to leaf loss, crown dieback and eventual structural failure as the tree weakens over time. While some trees show a degree of tolerance, most affected ash will decline over several years. The disease poses a particular risk in urban areas, where weakened branches can fall, making careful monitoring and management essential for public safety.
Safety maintenance work will take place in the coming months to reduce the risk of branch failure, and we will continue to monitor the tree’s condition. Sadly, the disease is now expected to cause the tree’s gradual decline over the next few years, and it may ultimately need to be removed.
The University has worked hard to retain the tree for as long as safely possible, following expert arboricultural guidance and industry best practice. Since the introduction of our ash dieback survey programme in 2020, only 29 of our 220 ash trees have needed to be removed, with every loss followed by replanting on at least a two-for-one basis, in line with our tree replacement policy.
We know the Firth Court ash holds a special place in the hearts of many students, staff and visitors. If it does have to be felled, we plan to create a lasting tribute from the wood so its presence can continue to be felt in a meaningful way.
We’ll also be inviting the University community to help select a suitable replacement tree for this important location, through a public vote on a shortlist of species that are well suited to the space and local environment.