Action is being taken to protect a much-loved ancient ash tree in a Cockermouth park which was damaged by fire.
An aboriculturist, working on behalf of Cockermouth Town Council which owns Memorial Gardens, has submitted a planning application to Cumberland Council.
The application proposes "in-filling cavity with a stack of logs which are joined together e.g. with wire and/or nails and which would need to be wedged in very tightly to prevent removal".
In 2021 the hollowed-out riverside tree caught fire and had to be doused with more than 1,800 litres of water.
The fire, which residents feared had killed the tree, is thought to have been started by a tea light. One was found on the ground at the base.
An arborist was called in to check out the tree and confirmed it should outlive us all, said then town and county councillor Alan Kennon.
The application states: "There is no established method of obstructing cavities without also disturbing natural processes, including access by wildlife, so as a rule cavities should not be obstructed unless the risk warrants it.
"However, in the case of this ancient Ash tree located in Cockermouth’s Memorial Park, intervention is warranted."
The reason is given as "damage and arson prevention to veteran tree".
In 2020, Cockermouth and District Civic Trust asked its members to nominate their favourite tree in the area. The clear winner was the old ‘knobbly’ ash tree, which is full of character and has been part of the town for centuries.
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