Felling some of Frodsham’s most historic trees will be a ‘last resort’, say Cheshire West and Chester Council staff.

Options are currently being considered for the best way of managing the iconic purple beech trees in Castle Park as they reach the end of their natural life.

The striking trees, which are close to the main house, have been in the park for the last 150 to 200 years but are now in their declining years and may soon begin to shed branches.

It has sparked considerable health and safety concerns in the community and CWaC is now looking at ways to deal with the issue, without having to eliminate a piece of the town’s history.

Cllr Stuart Parker, executive member for culture and economy, said: “Castle Park holds a special place in Frodsham’s historic landscape and none more so than its varied native and exotic tree specimens.

“The magnificent purple beeches have been in the park for close to two centuries and sadly are coming to the end of their natural lifespan.

“During this time, a tree of advanced years will shed branches and reduce its size so it can prolong its own life, which is part of the natural process and does not necessarily indicate an unhealthy tree.

“However, we must consider the need to balance public safety with the trees’ social importance to the park and its historic landscape and we ask members of the public to bear with us whilst we look at all of the options available to us.”

Council green space ranger, Stephanie Hefferan added: “The trees have been fully inspected and we are currently looking at the various options presented to us for their future management.

“During this inspection, several significant issues were noted that will need us to consider if they can be saved or whether, regrettably, felling is necessary.

“Felling will only be considered as the last resort,” she said.