Students shortcut closed after tree falls and destroys wall (From Somerset County Gazette)
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Students shortcut closed after tree falls and destroys wall
6:40am Friday 29th June 2012 in Taunton By Newsdesk
The fallen tree
A POPULAR shortcut for students has been closed after a huge tree crashed to the ground and demolished a wall on Monday morning.
The 200-year-old poplar, which was suffering a fungal infection in its roots, blocked the cycle and footpath through Mount Walk.
Somerset Highways closed the footpath and sent in a crane to remove the tree, although work was stopped several times as walkers and cyclists climbed fencing trying to use the path.
A Somerset County Council spokesman said: “The tree had recently been reduced in height from about 150ft to 80.
“It fell into a neighbouring paddock from the private property, damaging other trees and a wall.
“Once the tree has been removed by its owner, the path will be checked for damage before being re-opened.
“An alternative route is available via Gwynne Lane, South Road and Calway Road.”
