A DYING tree that is in danger of collapsing onto a canal towpath will finally be inspected more than a month after it was first reported.

Concerned residents off Wilfred Close in Worcester had raised concerns about the decaying canalside tree in September but little action was taken.

The same residents had also brought the unsafe tree to the attention of Arboretum ward councillor Jenny Barnes who said that despite several warnings that the tree was in danger of collapsing and hitting somebody, she was concerned that little had been done.

Worcester City Council’s tree officer had also recommended to the Canal and River Trust that the tree, which sits on the canal between Merrimans Hill Road and Lansdowne Road opposite the Flagge Meadow Playing Fields, be torn down to prevent it from falling and injuring walkers, joggers and cyclists using the canal towpath.

Cllr Barnes said: “The dead and dangerous tree was reported by the council’s tree officer over a month ago to the Canal and River Trust.

“Local residents have noticed it has become unstable and if it falls its height would both close the canal, and possibly hit any person on the canal towpath as it lands.

“Despite chasing there is no action despite the risk for joggers, cyclists, and walkers.

“I’ve also had comments from joggers in the Shrubbery Road area that they are concerned. It is something that a lot of people are aware of and it just needs to be sorted.

“The Canal and River Trust took a great deal of time before dealing with a fallen tree, and even though it didn’t completely block the navigation, it still took two years and the neighbours are obviously worried that this is going to take ages.

“It’s already taking ages for something that should have been removed as a hazard.”

“The tree officer has chased up his serious concerns, but has only been told that it is on a maintenance list.”

The Canal and River Trust has confirmed that the tree will finally be inspected on November 7.