Historic Mall trees felled in Mayo county town

Trees, some of which are estimated to be nearly 300 years old, have been felled in the Mall in Castlebar for health and safety reasons.

A number of trees growing on the Mall were felled on Tuesday afternoon after Mayo County Council received expert advice to remove the trees on health and safety grounds.

Some of the ash trees which are over 200 years old have been infected by Ash dieback, a serious disease of ash trees caused by the invasive fungal pathogen while another tree is split down the middle.

Local councillor Ger Deere said it was regrettable that some of the trees had to be removed and called for the timber to be used to make sculptures as well as given to charities for firewood.

“Sadly a number of trees have to be felled on the Mall due to health and safety reasons .One of the trees is estimated to be nearly 300 years old and has survived storms, wars, rebellions and witnessed so many historic events at the mall,” said Cllr Deere.

“It is regrettable that such iconic landmark trees will no longer be part of the Mall. It's a decision that wasn't taken likely by the local authority but following advice from experts on the grounds of health and safety, four trees have to be removed. Planting of replacement mature trees will take place in early 2025.

“I am requesting that some sculptures could be made from the timber of the oldest tree and put on permanent display on the Mall to retain the significance of this iconic tree. I have also suggested that remaining timber that is not suitable be given to local charities for firewood,” he added.

Fellow Castlebar-based councillor Harry Barrett also expressed sadness that 'some very old trees' were taken down in the Mall.