Monmouthshire County Council is preparing to carry out essential safety works on a large Copper Beech tree in Bailey Park in Abergavenny.

The work has been deemed necessary after routine inspections revealed decay within its root system.

The fungus Meripilus giganteus has become established around the tree’s roots, and the extent of the infection – visible in the autumn both in the extensive fungal growth at the base and in the declining vigour of the tree’s canopy – shows that the tree has been severely compromised.

Sadly, Meripilus giganteus poses a serious threat to beech trees, as it weakens the root structure and increases the risk of the tree blowing over, particularly during periods of high winds.

To ensure the safety of park visitors, a specialist contractor will carefully dismantle and remove the tree. An exclusion zone will be put in place during the works.

Ornamental copper beeches tend to be shorter‑lived than their common beech cousins, and trees growing in urban settings often face additional stresses. Pollution, soil compaction, and changes to ground surfaces can all have long‑term impacts on their health.

Over its lifetime, this particular tree has experienced significant pressures around its root zone, which, combined with the fungal infection, has contributed to its decline.

Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change and the Environment, Cllr Catrin Maby, said: “While it is always sad to lose a mature and cherished tree, the council remains committed to maintaining and enhancing the treescape which makes Bailey Park such an important place for people and wildlife. “We continue to plant new trees across the park to compensate for natural losses and to ensure that the landscape remains rich, resilient, and beautiful for future generations.”