A TREE stump which has been described as ‘dangerous’ is to be cut in half.

The tree stump in Walter Street, Blackburn, should have been cut down to a lower level when the tree was felled several years ago, say concerned homeowners. 

Now, Blackburn with Darwen Council says following new requests the stump will be cut but not removed completely as this could encourage ‘inconsiderate parking’.

A resident said: “A large tree was cut and stump has been left too high. 

“So, we have youths who climb on the tree and jump off it. Obviously, children can hurt themselves.

“A lot of the fencing has been broken off and left with sharp metal parts hanging. 

“This can be a hazard to people and also cars driving past.

“If we could get it cut down to a possibly a lower level it would be better.”

Another resident said: “It has been like this for years. It really needs to be cut shorter.

“It would also help with large vehicles turning into the factory opposite.”

Lancashire Telegraph:

Cllr Altaf ‘Tiger’ Patel said he was called by residents and passed on his concerns to the council. He said: “I have had a look at the tree stump and it is quite easy for someone to get on top of it. It is dangerous.

“It should be cut down lower so there is less chance of injury for a small child. At least the surrounding area should be made safe.

“I didn’t have any problem getting on the tree stump myself.”

A Blackburn with Darwen Council spokesperson said: “Following a report from a local councillor, an environment officer visited Walter Street today to inspect the area. 

“It appears that a vehicle has damaged the knee rail around the tree stump, and this has gone unreported by the driver. 

“As the knee rail is beyond repair, the environment team has since removed it and made the area safe.  

“The tree was originally felled a number of years ago. Upon inspection it was felt that the stump was larger than it should be. 

“We are making arrangements for the height of the stump to be reduced by half. This work will be carried out within the next two months. 

“We are against removing the tree stump completely, as it may encourage inconsiderate and illegal parking along Walter Street.”