Old chestnut tree cut down outside library

Cavan people are met with a disturbing void when they pass Johnston Central Library on Farnham Street. One of the cherished horse chestnut trees has been cut down.

A spokesperson for Cavan County Council said that following a survey of the trees by a registered arborist, it was discovered that one of the them was in poor structural condition and posed a significant risk to public safety. "On the basis of this professional advice, and in the interests of protecting the public, Cavan County Council engaged a contractor to safely remove the tree on Saturday morning," the spokesperson explained.

"Cavan County Council recognises that this tree occupied a special place in the hearts of Cavan people, and that its removal may cause upset." However, they continued, the safety of the people of Cavan was paramount and it was imperative that the tree was safely removed before a serious accident could occur.

The local authority is currently exploring all options with regard to identifying a suitable replacement for the tree and no decision has been taken at present, however the report has recommended the tree be removed to ground level, and this additional work will take place in January.