FI15158

Request

  1. There is a flagpole in the above "closed" cemetery, it needs a larger, new flag. I have offered them one. The flag cannot be seen as the large trees have not been pruned for many years. Therefore, will DDC please prune the trees either side of the flagpole, enabling the new larger flag to be flown and seen?
  2. Would it assist this task to be done if the church and or other parties contributed to the cost of pruning the trees? Would this facilitate the work?
  3. When were these trees last pruned and when would they routinely be due to next be done?
  4. Does the flagpole belong to DDC or St Mary’s Church?  

Response

  1. The Council has no intention of pruning these trees for the purpose requested.
  2. This is not about costs.  Decisions are made on whether the works are deemed suitable and in accordance with best practice, unfortunately in this case and they are not.
  3. The Council encourages trees to grow naturally and without intervention. Pruning a tree creates an ongoing maintenance responsibility. One of the tree species in this instance is a copper beech and as it is a mature beech, it does not take well to pruning. It would not be a recommendation that Council would promote, except for any health and safety concerns.
  4. The Council does not own the flagpole and does not currently hold any details as to its ownership.